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 than do ulcer patients. Both groups reveal strong covert hostile affect but differ in mode of disposition of these feelings. Arthritics fantasy their body as a protecting and containing device while ulcer patients think of their body as open and vulnerable.