Scale A: Chronic Tension (29 items)


 High levels of stress have repeatedly been found to relate to the

incidence of a variety of diseases. More specifically, qualitative

studies of chronic stress, such as persistent job tensions or marital

problems, have been carried out with particular reference to their

impact on heart diseases, often addressed as Type A-Type B behavior

(Friedman & Rosenman, 1974; Gersten, Frii, & Lengner, 1976; Jenkins,

1976; Rahe, 1977). High scorers on this scale are disposed to suffer

various psychosomatic and physical ailments, notably in the cardio-

vascular and digestive systems. They seem constantly on the go, live

under considerable self-imposed pressure, and have trouble relaxing.

Where feasible, discussions should be initiated by the health care

practitioner with the thought of reducing tensions and slowing down the

rapid pace of life these patients pursue.


Scale B: Recent Stress (20 items)


 This scale addresses the patients' perceptions of the prevalence of

stress in the recent past. This is a phenomenological assessment

similar to the Social Readjustment Rating Scale (Holmes & Rahe, 1967)

and Sarason and Johnson's Life Experience Survey (1978). High scorers

on this scale have an increased susceptibility to serious illness for

the year following test administration. Recent marked changes in their

life predicts a significantly higher incidence of poor physical and

psychological health than in the population-at-large (Andrew, 1970; Rahe

& Arthur, 1968). Regular and frequent contact with medical personnel