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Personality differences between drug injectors and non-injectors among substance-dependent patients in substitution
Julie Saint-Lèbes1, Rachel Rodgers, Philippe Birmes
1Laboratoire du Stress Traumatique, Université de Toulouse-UPS, France.
Background:
Understanding personality differences between injectors and non-injectors in substitution treatment may provide new insights to help improve treatment programs.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to compare drug injectors and non-injectors in terms of personality disorders and dimensions.
Methods:
Forty participants recruited from substance abuse treatment centers (23 injectors and 17 non-injectors) completed the self-report Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire 4th version and Temperament and Character Inventory. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to compare means of personality disorder traits, temperament, and character differences between injectors and non-injectors.
Results:
The mean (SD) age of the sample (72.5% male) was 36.5 (8.7) years. Injectors reported more borderline personality disorders and increased global personality disturbance (p < .05). Similarly, Anticipatory worry, Shyness, and Fatigability facet scores were higher among injectors (p < .01). Attachment, Purposeful, and Congruent second nature facet scores were higher among non-injectors (p < .01).
Conclusion:
According to the route of drug administration, drug dependents differed in terms of personality disorders and dimensions.
Scientific Significance:
These results may have implications for the implementation of treatment programs. New research in this area may contribute to the understanding and prevention of intravenous drug use.
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