A Comparison of Psychological Characteristics and Physiological Reactivity in Ulcer and Rheumatoid Arthritis Groups

Abstract

A previous study by the authors on rheumatoid arthritis is partially replicated. A group of 26 male rheumatoid arthritics and 33 male duodenal ulcer patients are examined using a brief interview and an ink blot test. In the main, results of the earlier study are supported. These include a tendency for arthritics to report greater participation earlier in life in rugged physical activity. Analysis of the ink blot test indicates arthritics and ulcer patients entertain contrasting and unique body images. Strong hostile affect is present in both groups, but the two differ in method of disposing of these feelings.