Use of the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) for assessment of personality in chronic fatigue syndrome.

BACKGROUND Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is characterized by severe and prolonged fatigue, along with a set of nonspecific symptoms and signs, such as sore throat, muscle pain, headaches, and difficulties with concentration or memory. OBJECTIVE The study examined whether CFS is associated with specific dimensions of Cloninger's psychobiological model of personality. METHOD Personality profiles were compared between 38 CFS patients and 42 control subjects by means of the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI). RESULTS The CFS group showed significantly higher scores on Harm-Avoidance and Persistence. CONCLUSION The current study shows a significant association between specific personality characteristics and CFS. These personality traits may be implicated in the onset and/or perpetuation of CFS and may be a productive focus for psychotherapy.