The Prevalence of Personality Disorders: A Cross Sectional Study in Tabriz

Background and Objectives: Personality disorders considered as an important health problem are associated with significant consequences in the community. The disorders complicate the treatment process of other diseases and conditions as well. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of personality disorder in Tabriz city, northwest Iran. Material and Methods: The short form of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI, 71 questions) was used to measure the personality disorders in a sample of 150 individuals (aged 18-62 years) including staff and clients of the primary health care settings in Tabriz, northwest Iran. The clinical profile of the participants was assessed using MMPI questionnaire/software. The patients' test data were then interpreted by the study investigators. Results: The overall prevalence of the personality disorder was 20% (95% Confidence Intervals: 13.5 to 26.4) in the study population. The same rate was calculated 23.7% (95% Confidence Intervals: 15.2 to 32.1) in women, and 20.9% (95% Confidence Intervals: 13.3 to 28.5) for married individuals. Conclusion: According to our findings, personality disorders are common in the community. One in five persons was detected as having personality disorders. Understanding the epidemiology of personality disorders and the relevant comorbidities in general population is important for policy-making in mental health programs at community level.