The comparison of personality dimensions and problem-solving styles in people with coronary heart disease (CHD), chronic low back pain (CLBP) and healthy people

Background: Research has mainly focused on personality factors related to chronic illness that are resistant against change. Therefore, we need to work on the factors that can be changed. The aim of this study was to investigate personality dimensions and problem-solving styles in people with coronary heart disease, chronic low back pain, and healthy people.

Methods: In a causal-comparative design, 150 CHD patients, chronic low back pain sufferers, and healthy people (50 for each group) were conveniently selected in Imam Reza Hospital of Kermanshah. CHD and CLBP were diagnosed by the physician. Healthy people were hospital workers and family members of patient. Then they completed the Personality dimensions and problem-solving styles Questionnaires.

Results: Pearson correlation and covariance analysis indicated that: a) personality dimensions of neuroticism and psychoticism were positively correlated with unhealthy problem-solving styles (avoidant, helpless, and control) and were negatively correlated with healthy problem-solving styles (creative, confidence, and tendency), b) neuroticism and psychoticism were higher in CHD Patients and CLBP sufferers, but extroversion was lower in CHD patients and CLBP, than in healthy people. CHD Patients and CLBP sufferers had more scores on unhealthy problem solving styles and lower than healthy people used healthy styles.

Conclusion: In addition to personality, cognitive behavioral factors which are more changeable than personality factors are correlated with CHD, CLPB and may be changed to help these patients.