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Activity/disengagement revisited: personality types in the aged
The British Journal of Psychiatry : the Journal of Mental Science
|November 1, 1983
Summary
Four distinct personality patterns in old age were identified in community-dwelling seniors. The "perturbed" personality type showed a higher likelihood of developing psychiatric disorders later in life.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Understanding personality in old age is crucial for mental health.
- Previous research has not fully delineated distinct personality patterns in later life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize different personality patterns in an elderly community sample.
- To explore the clinical implications of these identified personality types.
Main Methods:
- A community sample of 82 elderly subjects (mean age 79.6 years) was analyzed.
- Multivariate statistical techniques were employed to identify personality patterns.
Main Results:
- Four distinct personality patterns were identified: normal, introverted, perturbed, and matured integrated.
- The 'perturbed' group exhibited the highest risk for developing psychiatric disorders.
Conclusions:
- Personality in old age is not monolithic and can be categorized into distinct patterns.
- The 'perturbed' personality pattern serves as a potential indicator for psychiatric vulnerability in older adults.