Association of Personality Characteristics of Alcohol Dependent Individuals with their Liver Enzyme Levels

Introduction: All over the world Alcohol Dependence Syndrome (ADS) is most significant health problem. Among different individuals, the severity of liver dysfunction related to alcohol varies and related to different factors including personality traits. Aim: To find the personality variables of alcohol dependent patients and to determine its association with liver enzymes level among them. Materials and Methods: Total of 100 patients were selected from psychiatry department of JNMC, Sawangi, Wardha, Maharashtra and they were assessed through socio-demographic proforma, 16 personality factor (16 PF) inventory and liver function tests. Results: Most of the participants scored high on factors warmth (56%), social boldness (56%), dominance (67%), vigilance (77%), sensitivity (70%), perfectionism (52%) and openness to change (65%); while comparatively scored lower on factors privateness (50%) and liveliness (35%). The personality factors emotional stability, dominance, sensitivity, abstractedness, apprehension, self-reliance, perfectionism and tension were significantly correlated with various liver enzymes; whereas, global factor Extraversion/Introversion, Tough-mindedeness/Receptivity and Independence/ Accommodation were correlated with various liver enzymes when p < 0.05 considered significant. Conclusion: This study suggests that the personality factors affect the liver enzymes level in alcohol dependent subjects. Hence, the personality factors should be addressed by physician during intervention to improve outcome.