Assessment of personality factors amongst alcoholics and non-alcoholics in rural part of central India: A cross - sectional study
Apurva P. Bezalwar, Pradeep S. Patil, Shobha S. Pajai
A
BSTRACT
Background:
Alcohol use disorders (AUD) are influenced by a combination of personality traits, demographic factors, and socioeconomic variables. This study aimed to explore the association between personality factors and alcohol dependence in a rural central Indian population.
Methods:
A cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted, involving 180 participants divided equally into two groups: individuals with AUD (cases: 90) and those without (controls: 90). Data were collected using validated tools, including the sixteen personality factor questionnaire (16 PF), alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT), and CAGE. Socio-demographic details were also recorded. Statistical analysis included Chi-square tests, t-tests, and Pearson’s correlation to evaluate associations.
Results:
Significant differences in personality traits were observed between groups, with cases showing lower emotional stability 38 (42.2%), liveliness 43 (47.8%), and vigilance 42 (46.7%), but higher tension 43 (47.8%) and privateness 33 (36.7%) compared to controls. AUDIT scores identified harmful drinking behaviors in 86 (76.1%) alcoholics compared to 6 (6.0%) non-alcoholics. Demographic analysis revealed associations with marital status, where divorced individuals were more prevalent among cases 13 (14.4%) compared to controls 4 (4.4%), and psychiatric illness history was higher in cases 5 (5.6%) compared to controls 3 (3.3%).
Conclusion:
The findings suggest a complex interplay between personality traits and alcohol dependence, emphasizing the need for holistic interventions addressing psychological, and social factors. These insights can guide tailored treatment strategies for AUD.