Assessing the Type A behaviour pattern with the Jenkins Activity Survey

Abstract
Controversy has arisen over the usefulness and reliability of the Jenkins Activity Survey (JAS) as a measure of Type A behaviour. Ray and Bozek (1980), Jenkins and Zyzanski (1982) and Ray (1984) have exchanged contrasting views. Our data show (1) low internal consistency scores for the four components of the JAS: i.e. the Type A scale itself and factors speed and impatience (S), job involvement (J), and hard-driving competitiveness (H); and (2) a low test-retest reliability result for the Type A scale. Further, the weighted scoring scheme of the JAS is questioned. Recommendations are made to eliminate the weighted scoring scheme, delete factors S, J, and H, revise specific items in the JAS.