Investigating Structural Relationships of temperament Dimensions with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Mediated by Disgust Sensitivity

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the structural relationships between the dimensions of temperament, disgust sensitivity and obsessive-compulsive disorder using structural equation modeling. It is assumed that the dimensions of temperament and the disgust sensitivity in interacting with each other lead to obsessive-compulsive disorder. Despite the importance of this model, not enough research has been done to evaluate it empirically. A descriptive-correlational method was used in the current study, and 377 students of Urmia University were selected using cluster sampling. They answered the Cloninger temperament questionnaire, the Disgust Sensitivity Scale and the revised obsessive-compulsive disorder questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using structural equation modeling. SPSS and AMOS software were used to classify, process, analyze the data and test the research hypotheses. Evaluation of the hypothetical model of the research using fitness indicators showed that the hypothetical model fits with the measurement model (CFI=0.96, RFIEA=0.91, NFI=0.07). The results showed that the dimensions of temperament with the mediation of disgust sensitivity have a significant effect on obsessive-compulsive disorder at the level of P <0.05. The research findings along with supporting the hypothetical model for obsessive-compulsive disorder show a suitable model for the etiology of this disorder. Accordingly, the dimensions of temperament, mediated by disgust sensitivity, lead to an increase in the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Keywords

• disgust sensitivity
• obsessive compulsive disorder
• temperament