Psychometric properties of the Type D personality measure in a Norwegian patient population Running title: Type D in Norwegian coronary patients

The combination of negative affectivity (NA) and social inhibition (SI) – the Type D Personality – has been associated with poor outcomes in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. A Norwegian translation of the standard instrument measuring Type D (DS14), was tested on 432 coronary artery bypass (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) patients. Factor analysis produced two factors with high inter-item reliability. 18% were classified as Type D. Type D was associated with anxiety, depression, and passive coping. NA correlated with depression, anxiety, wishful thinking, and avoidance coping. SI correlated with depression and anxiety, and negatively with goal orientation and seeking support. Type D was related to a history of CAD and time since treatment, controlling for data on demographics, treatment, and coronary health. Discussion includes questions about cut-off levels, cultural differences, and whether the DS14 may partially reflect illness or treatment related stress.