... evidence to suggest that this type of personality actually causes cancer. Morris et al (1981) conducted a study of 50 women awaiting treatment for a breast lump. Morris found that those women who were subsequently found to have a malignant lump had reported that they both expressed far less anger than those women diagnosed with a tumour. Morris noticed a link between cancer and suppression of anger, increased anger and lowered immune system. Another link between stress and personality has been suggested by Kobasa's concept of the hardy personality. Kobasa (1979) argued that people differ considerably in their ability to cope with stressors. Some people cope very well with stressful situations whilst others break down under very little pressure. The term 'hardiness' describes a clutter of traits possessed by people able to cope with stress. Three characteristics of 'hardy' types, identified by Kobasa include: the ability to seek challenges and be in ...

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