Psychopathological Symptoms and Neuroticism in Female Outpatients With Dermatological Conditions:A Comparative Study
10.5021/ad.25.076
- Author:
Hyun-Seung CHEE
;
Solee HAN
;
Young LEE
;
So-Hyun AHN
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:Annals of Dermatology
2026;38(2):136-142
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Background:Despite evidence suggesting a bidirectional relationship between psychological factors and skin disease, psychological distress and personality traits remain underexplored in dermatological care.
Objective:This study aimed to compare psychopathological symptoms and personality traits between female outpatients with dermatological conditions and healthy controls.
Methods:In total, 159 outpatients with dermatological conditions and 160 healthy controls (all female) completed the Symptom Check List-90-Revised (SCL-90-R), and a shortened version of the NEO-Personality Inventory-Revised. Between-group comparisons were conducted using t-tests, and stepwise regression analysis was used to identify the psychopathological predictors of neuroticism.
Results:Compared with controls, the dermatology outpatient group demonstrated significantly higher SCL-90-R scores for all nine clinical scales and neuroticism, scoring lower in extraversion, openness, and agreeableness. Within the dermatology outpatient group, neuroticism was positively associated with all psychopathological dimensions (r=0.265–0.583; p<0.01). Depression, somatization, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms were significant predictors of neuroticism (F=33.969; p<0.001).
Conclusion:Female outpatients with dermatological conditions may experience considerable psychological distress and elevated neuroticism, even in the absence of clinical psychiatric diagnoses. Screening for psychological symptoms—including neuroticism, depression, somatization, and obsessive-compulsive features—should be considered in dermatological settings to better address patients’ emotional well-being and optimize care outcomes.
