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MMPI correlates of psychotherapy compliance among obsessive-compulsives
1Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine.
Abstract:
The purpose of this investigation was to examine the relationship between compliance with a behavior therapy program and personality characteristics of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) outpatients (n = 169), as measured by the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI). Compliance was defined as the number of scheduled behavior therapy sessions canceled or missed by patients. Standard multiple regression analysis revealed that higher scores on scales 8 (Schizophrenia), 2 (Depression), and 0 (Social Introversion) contributed significantly to the prediction of compliance among OCD patients engaged in behavior therapy.
Insights
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) patients with higher depression, schizophrenia, and social introversion traits were less likely to complete behavior therapy. Understanding these personality links can improve treatment adherence for OCD.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a debilitating mental health condition.
- Behavior therapy is a common treatment for OCD.
- Patient compliance with therapy is crucial for successful outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between personality traits and compliance in OCD outpatients undergoing behavior therapy.
- To identify specific personality characteristics that predict adherence to treatment.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 169 outpatients with OCD was assessed.
- Personality characteristics were measured using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI).
- Compliance was quantified by the number of missed or canceled behavior therapy sessions.
Main Results:
- Higher scores on the MMPI Schizophrenia (Scale 8), Depression (Scale 2), and Social Introversion (Scale 0) scales significantly predicted lower compliance.
- These personality dimensions were key predictors of treatment adherence in the studied OCD population.
Conclusions:
- Specific personality traits, including those related to depression, schizophrenia spectrum, and social introversion, are linked to reduced compliance in OCD behavior therapy.
- Identifying these traits may help clinicians anticipate and address potential barriers to treatment adherence in OCD patients.