Personality Traits and Fibromyalgia Syndrome

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is considered as a widespread chronic pain disorder of unknown etiology. Since personality traits can play an important role in the development of FMS, this review article was conducted in order to increase the understanding of personality traits related to FMS.

This review article was conducted by searching articles based on PRISMA guidelines for studies published from 2000 to September 2021 in authentic databases using the keywords fibromyalgia syndrome, chronic widespread pain, personality, and personality tests. The results of 30 eligible studies aimed at identifying personality traits in patients with FMS were reviewed and summarized.

According to the theoretical model used, the articles that used the TCI tool reported high traumatic avoidance and low self-regulation. High scores in hypochondriasis, hysteria and depression have been observed using the MMPI questionnaire. Moreover, other studies showed a high score in neuroticism using NEO. In this systematic review, some personality traits related to FMS were identified and explained. In other words, many patients with fibromyalgia show personality traits that are related to the mechanisms involved in FMS.

The findings provide evidence that personality traits can play a key role in the development and persistence of this syndrome. However, studies lack sufficient evidence to support an "FMS personality." The results expand our knowledge about the complex nature of this disorder and facilitate the effective treatment of FMS patients. Overall, these findings support the need for a comprehensive personality model to better understand FMS.