Faculty Publications

Are The “Big 5” Personality Traits Associated With Substance Use Self-Stigma?

Document Type

Article

Keywords

personality traits, self-stigma, substance use

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Journal of Drug Issues

Abstract

Self-stigma among individuals with substance use problems is notably high, but not all individuals with substance use problems experience elevated self-stigma. Unfortunately, there is limited research to account for such variation. A few studies have examined the association between personality traits from the five-factor model (FFM; “Big 5”) and self-stigma among those with mental illness, but no research exists among individuals with substance use disorders. Based on data from 125 individuals residing in a substance use treatment unit, the FFM personality traits collectively account for 33% to 56% of the variance across four components of self-stigma. More specifically, individuals with high neuroticism, low conscientiousness, and/or low extraversion experience greater self-stigma. The identification of at-risk individuals, via personality traits, could allow for development of targeted interventions to address self-stigma, and ultimately improve treatment retention and outcomes.

Department

Department of Psychology

Original Publication Date

1-1-2023

DOI of published version

10.1177/00220426231163801

Link to Full Text

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