Neuroticism negatively correlates with coping with stress in patients with psoriasis Neurotyczno negatywnie koreluje z radzeniem sobie ze stresem u chorych na uszczyc

Introduction: The identification of psychological variables influencing coping with stress in patients with psoriasis is the basis for the usage of suitable psychological intervention targeting support of the healing process. The aim of the study: To analyze the influence of personality traits on coping with stress and quality of life in patients with psoriasis. Material and methods: The study comprised 22 patients with psoriasis (8 women and 14 men) who completed following questionnaires: NEO-Five Factor Inventory, Strategies of coping with stress (SRSS) and SKINDEX. Results: The personality profile of patients with psoriasis was similar to values observed in the general population. The mean result found in SRSS concerning problem oriented strategy (37.6±9.4) was higher than the median on the scale. The mean result in SRSS concerning emotionally oriented strategy (54.8±23.9) was lower than the median in the scale. The mean result in SKINDEX (95±23.9) was higher than the median on the scale, and indicates the occurrence of lowered quality of life in patients with psoriasis. In NEO-FFI, neuroticism negatively correlated with the problem oriented strategy in SRSS (r=-0.7; p<0.0001). The result in SRSS concerning emotion oriented strategy positively correlated with the result obtained in SKINDEX, i.e. this group of patients was characterized with the lower quality of life (r=0.32; p=0.02). Conclusions: The obtained results confirm a rational need for qualifying the patients with psoriasis for psychological interventions, aimed to modulate personality and enhance coping with stress, and may be helpful in patient’s adjustment, and improvement of quality of life.