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A dimensional approach to personality in atypical depression
Kevin K Chopra1, R Michael Bagby, Susan Dickens
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, c/o CAMH Room 1121, 250 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5T 1R8. kevin_chopra@camh.net
Psychiatry Research
|April 21, 2005
Summary
This study links personality traits to atypical depression using the Five-Factor Model (FFM). Individuals with atypical depression showed higher Neuroticism and lower Deliberation, offering insights into distinct personality profiles.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
Background:
- Atypical depression is a subtype of major depressive disorder with distinct clinical features.
- Understanding the personality correlates of atypical depression can aid in differential diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between personality traits, as defined by the Five-Factor Model (FFM), and atypical depression.
- To identify specific FFM personality characteristics differentiating atypical depression from other depressive subtypes.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 160 outpatients with non-psychotic major depression were assessed.
- Participants were categorized into atypical (n=26) and non-atypical (n=134) depression groups based on DSM-IV criteria.
- Personality was evaluated using the Revised NEO Personality Inventory after 14 weeks of antidepressant treatment to minimize state-dependent effects.
Main Results:
- The atypical depression group exhibited significantly higher scores on Neuroticism compared to the non-atypical group.
- Specific facets associated with atypical depression included higher Impulsivity and Anger-Hostility, and lower Deliberation.
- These findings suggest distinct personality profiles associated with atypical depression.
Conclusions:
- The Five-Factor Model (FFM) framework offers valuable insights into the unique personality characteristics associated with atypical depression.
- Identifying these personality traits may contribute to a more nuanced understanding and classification of depressive disorders.