Study of the relationship between myopia and personality

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Myopic refractive error is a global health concern.
• Understanding potential links between myopia and psychological factors is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between myopic refractive error and specific personality traits.
• To determine if the degree of myopia is associated with a higher incidence of personality disorders.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional observational multicenter study involving 82 individuals with myopia (spherical defect ≤ -0.5 D).
• Data collected included age, gender, academic level, personality test results (Neo PI-R), autorefractometry, myopic pathology, and ophthalmological treatment.
• Subjects were categorized into low and high myopia groups (high myopia defined as <-6 D).

Main Results:

• No statistically significant correlation was found between the magnitude of the spherical defect and the five personality traits (neuroticism, extroversion, openness, kindness, responsibility) in the total sample.
• A significant upward trend was observed between the myopic defect and increased scores on extraversion when analyzed in subgroups (P=.002).
• High myopia subjects differed significantly from non-high myopic subjects in associated pathology (P=.001), treatment received (P=.001), and educational level (P=.013), but not in personality variables.

Conclusions:

• A low correlation exists between myopia and personality traits.
• No significant difference in myopia degree was observed between groups with varying educational levels.
• Subjects with more severe ocular pathology associated with myopia did not show a significant association with higher neuroticism scores.