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Personality correlates of adherence with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)

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Abstract

Introduction

Adherence with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been problematic. Understanding the factors associated with nonadherence may assist with psychosocial interventions.

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between adherence and three measures of personality and coping strategies.

Methods

Ratings on the behavioral inhibition system/behavioral activation system (BIS/BAS) scales, the ways of coping inventory, and a broad personality measure (mini-IPIP) were analyzed with a binary logistic regression among 63 subjects, adult men (31) and women (32), diagnosed with OSA. Data from the CPAP device was obtained following initial 30 days at minimum, with adherence defined as >4 h/night on 70% of nights.

Results

Elevated BIS was the strongest predictor of nonadherence (r = −.452, p < .01), followed by neuroticism. The regression correctly classified 73% of participants as adherent or nonadherent.

Conclusion

Nonadherence is associated with elevated BIS scores and neuroticism, which indicates that personality factors play a role in determining adherence to CPAP. Although more research is needed to draw firm conclusions, the differences noted in BIS may also point toward differences in neurophysiological function. The BIS scale may be a useful tool for predicting nonadherence and assist with the development of intervention strategies that will increase adherence.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, East Carolina University, Rawl Building, Greenville, NC, 27834, USA

    Alicia M. Moran, Daniel Erik Everhart, Claude Ervin Davis & Karl L. Wuensch

  2. Pitt County Memorial Hospital Sleep Center, #4 Doctors Park, Greenville, NC, 27858, USA

    Alicia M. Moran, Daniel Erik Everhart & Daniel O. Lee

  3. Department of Psychology, Case Western Reserve University, Mather Memorial Building, Room 109, 11220 Bellflower Road, Cleveland, OH, 44106-7123, USA

    Heath A. Demaree

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  1. Alicia M. Moran
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  2. Daniel Erik Everhart
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  3. Claude Ervin Davis
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  4. Karl L. Wuensch
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Correspondence to Daniel Erik Everhart.

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Moran, A.M., Everhart, D.E., Davis, C.E. et al. Personality correlates of adherence with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Sleep Breath 15, 687–694 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11325-010-0422-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11325-010-0422-8

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