Assessing Temperament and Character Traits in Patients with Varying Degrees of Chronic Pain: A Comparative Analysis

Chronic pain is a multifaceted condition influenced by biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, with personality traits playing a key role in shaping individual experiences. This study investigates the differences in temperament and character traits among individuals with varying degrees of chronic pain severity. Conducted as a descriptive and causal-comparative study, the research focused on patients with chronic pain attending pain clinics and physiotherapy centers in Tehran between 2022 and 2023. A purposive sample of 130 individuals experiencing low and 130 individuals experiencing high pain levels participated in the study. The participants completed questionnaires assessing chronic pain severity using the Graded Chronic Pain Scale and personality traits using the Temperament and Character Inventory. Data analysis was conducted using multivariate analysis of variance with SPSS 24. The results revealed significant temperament and character components between the two groups (p < 0.01). Patients experiencing higher levels of chronic pain exhibited elevated levels of harm avoidance (F=761.740) and novelty seeking (F=399.756), alongside decreased levels of reward dependence (F=564.723), persistence (F=243.040), self-directedness (F=291.953), cooperativeness (F=452.232), and self-transcendence (F=285.586). The results of this study revealed that individuals with higher levels of chronic pain exhibit elevated harm avoidance and novelty seeking, along with lower reward dependence, persistence, self-directedness, cooperativeness, and self-transcendence. These differences highlight the significant influence of personality traits on chronic pain experiences. The findings can inform the development of personalized pain management strategies to improve the quality of life for these patients.