Personality Traits in Patients with Subjective Idiopathic Tinnitus

Document Type : Original

Authors

1 Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.

2 Department of Psychology, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.

3 General Practitioner, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.

4 3Department of Biostatistics, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction:
Tinnitus is a common complaint in patients referred to otorhinolaryngology clinics and is a condition where one hears a sound without any distinguishable external acoustic source or electrical stimulus. About 3-30% of adults experience different degrees of tinnitus during their life. This study aims to ascertain and compare personality traits between patients with tinnitus and a control group.
 
Materials and Methods:
In a case control study, 66 participants were assessed. The case group consisted of 33 patients who suffered from tinnitus for at least two months, in addition to 33 healthy volunteers who were selected among their family (preferably of the same age and sex). A standard demographic questionnaire and an Eyzenck personality questionnaire were filled for both groups. A tinnitus severity index (TSI) questionnaire was only filled for the case group. Data from each group was compared by Mann-Whitney U and Chi-Square tests. SPSS V.18 was the selected software.
 
Results:
Statistical analysis showed a meaningful difference in neuroticism (P=0.001) and extraversion (P=0.001) between the patients and the controls; however, there was no statistical difference between these groups regarding psychotism.
 
Conclusion: 
Tinnitus can be associated with personality characteristics. This study showed that in patients with tinnitus, neuroticism increases and extraversion decreases. Considering the personality and psychotic traits observed in the patients with tinnitus, psychiatric consultation is recommended.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Iranian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology
Volume 27, Issue 5 - Serial Number 5
September and October 2015
Pages 369-375

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