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Predicting relapse to substance abuse as a function of personality dimensions
L A Fisher1, J W Elias, K Ritz
1Veterans Affairs Medical Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75216, USA.
Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research
|September 3, 1998
Summary
This study found that specific personality traits, Neuroticism and Conscientiousness, predict relapse in substance abuse patients. High Neuroticism and low Conscientiousness significantly increase the risk of returning to heavy drinking or drug use after treatment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Addiction Research
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Substance abuse treatment often faces challenges with patient relapse.
- Understanding individual differences, such as personality traits, may improve treatment outcomes.
- The 5-factor model of personality provides a framework for assessing these traits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between personality traits and relapse to substance use after inpatient treatment.
- To identify specific personality domains that predict return to heavy drinking or drug use.
Main Methods:
- Assessed personality traits using the NEO-Personality Inventory in 108 inpatient substance abuse patients.
- Followed patients for one year post-discharge to monitor relapse.
- Utilized survival analysis to determine predictors of relapse.
Main Results:
- Patients scored higher on Neuroticism and Conscientiousness compared to the normative sample.
- High Neuroticism and low Conscientiousness were significant predictors of relapse.
- The highest risk of relapse was observed in patients with high Neuroticism and low Conscientiousness.
Conclusions:
- Neuroticism and Conscientiousness are crucial personality dimensions influencing addiction and relapse.
- These findings highlight the need for tailored treatment strategies for individuals with these personality risk factors.
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