Substance Addiction and Its Relationship to Temperamental Personality

Abstract

Drug addiction is considered one of the most significant psychological and social issues facing modern societies due to its negative effects on physical and mental health, as well as its familial, social, and economic dimensions. Recent studies have shown that psychological factors play an important role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to addiction, with affective personality being one of the most prominent factors. Affective personality includes relatively stable psychological traits such as neuroticism, extraversion, openness to experience, and impulsivity. Research indicates that some of these traits may increase the likelihood of substance use, while others function as protective factors that reduce this risk.

This study aims to examine the correlational relationship between affective personality traits and substance use behaviors, with a focus on the most influential traits, using a descriptive approach in psychology. The research relies on an analysis of previous studies and theoretical reviews published between 2010 and 2023, particularly those investigating the relationship between affective temperament and addiction, with the objective of providing an accurate and comprehensive description of the phenomenon as it is, without experimental intervention. The study also seeks to clarify the scope and definitions used, including the terms “drug addiction” and “affective personality,” to provide a clear scientific framework for analysis and interpretation.

Findings from previous research indicate that individuals with high levels of neuroticism and impulsivity are more prone to engage in substance use behaviors, whereas high self-control and moderate openness to experience act as protective factors that reduce the likelihood of substance use. Furthermore, the study highlights that affective personality traits influence not only susceptibility to addiction but also the course of treatment, as psychological traits contribute to determining treatment responsiveness, relapse risk, and the success of therapeutic interventions.

Accordingly, this study seeks to provide a practical scientific contribution, as its findings can be used to design early preventive programs for high-risk groups, as well as to develop individualized treatment programs that take into account each patient’s affective personality traits, thereby enhancing recovery outcomes and reducing relapse rates. Moreover, the study provides a scientific foundation for future research aimed at exploring the causal relationship between affective temperament and addictive behaviors, and conducting deeper analyses of the psychological factors influencing addiction.

In conclusion, the study emphasizes that understanding the relationship between affective personality traits and drug addiction represents an effective tool for guiding preventive and therapeutic efforts, and enhances the capacity for early intervention to reduce the psychological and social risks associated with addiction, thereby yielding significant benefits for both individuals and society.