A Comparative Study on the Personality Traits of Opioid- Dependents with and without Somatic Chronic Pain Complaints

Some people use opioid substances to relief their chronic somatic pains. There are differences in the personality traits of this individuals and others who abuse opioid substances. The purpose of the present study was to compare these two groups in regard to their personality traits and disorders. In a cross-sectional study between 2007 to 2011, all patients referred for drug quit to the outpatient addiction clinic of Imam Hospital affiliated to Jundishapur University were investigated demographically. In addition, all of them underwent physical examination, MMPI test and psychiatric interview. Then they were divided into two groups of "with pain complaint" and "without pain complaint". Their personality traits were compared using t-test and χ2. The total number of patients was 488, including 478 males and 10 females. Mean scores of Psychatenia (pt) and paranoia (Pa) indexes in the patients who suffered from chronic non- cancer pain was lower in comparison to the patients without pain complaint. Based on the results of psychological interview, the prevalence of personality disorder was higher in the "without pain" group. Patients with chronic pain had higher educational degrees and they were more likely under the influence of their friends at the onset of opioid abuse. In the present study those who used opioid for pain relief, had healthier psychiatric profiles and personalities. Their psychiatric interviews were more valid and reliable and their psychological problems were less than the other group and their addiction was a maladaptive behavior.