Personality prototypes in individuals with compulsive buying based on the Big Five Model

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Compulsive buying (CB) is a significant behavioral disorder.
• Understanding personality correlates of CB is crucial for effective treatment.
• The Big Five factor model provides a framework for personality assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify distinct personality profiles within a treatment-seeking sample of individuals with compulsive buying.
• To examine the relationship between these personality profiles and CB severity, control, and comorbid conditions.
• To investigate the differential treatment outcomes based on identified personality prototypes.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 68 individuals with compulsive buying seeking treatment was analyzed.
• Cluster analysis was performed on the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI) scales to identify personality clusters.
• Severity of CB, perceived control, comorbidity rates, and remission rates after cognitive-behavioral therapy were assessed.

Main Results:

• Two distinct personality clusters were identified.
• Cluster II, characterized by higher neuroticism and lower conscientiousness, agreeableness, extraversion, and openness, exhibited greater CB severity and lower perceived control.
• Cluster II also showed higher rates of anxiety and Cluster B personality disorders, and significantly lower remission rates following cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Conclusions:

• Distinct personality prototypes exist within the compulsive buying population.
• A profile high in neuroticism is associated with more severe compulsive buying and poorer treatment prognosis.
• These findings underscore the need for tailored therapeutic approaches for individuals with compulsive buying, considering their specific personality characteristics.