Studies in various patient populations have found reduced quality of life, lower self-esteem and more cognitive complaints compared to the general population. Research indicates that similar...Show moreStudies in various patient populations have found reduced quality of life, lower self-esteem and more cognitive complaints compared to the general population. Research indicates that similar tendencies are also observable in patients with personality disorders, however only a few studies have addressed these areas in patients with Cluster C personality disorder, despite the fact, that it is the most prevalent personality disorder type. The goal of the present study was to describe the most commonly occurring cognitive complaints in this patient population, as well as to examine the associations between quality of life, self-esteem and cognitive complaints. For this purpose, data from 347 outpatients with Cluster C personality disorder was analysed as part of a greater nationwide ongoing research. To operationalize the constructs of interest, the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule 2.0, Rosenberg’s Self-Esteem Scale and the MHQoL-7D questionnaires were used, measuring cognitive complaints, self-esteem and quality of life respectively. Linear regression analysis as well as visual inspection of descriptives were the statistical methods of choice. Results indicated mild disability on the cognitive domain in the patient population. Furthermore, significant associations were found between more cognitive complaints and lower self-esteem (p ˂ .001) and lower quality of life (p ˂ .001). Additionally, higher self-esteem correlated with better quality of life (p ˂ .001) and higher age of the participants (p ˂ .001). Higher age was also associated with lower quality of life (p = .047). Nationality and gender did not have a statistically significant association with any outcome variable. These results were in line with findings of previous research in other patient populations. As these characteristics can potentially influence treatment outcomes, the findings of the current study can be considered an important contribution to the currently lacking knowledge base of patients with Cluster C personality disorder.Show less
