ABSTRACT
The most prevalent of dysfunctional gastrointestinal disorders is irritable bowel syndrome [IBS] which affects more than 50% of patients. The aim of the present study was to compare five personality factors related to mental health between patients of IBS and healthy population in Ahvaz clinics of digestive diseases. Our studied population consisted of 72 patients and 72 healthy people derived from retinue of patients. All patients were clinically investigated by a gastroenterologist for IBS. Psychological variables were evaluated in two groups by the NEO-FFI and GHQ. Differences between two groups were significant in neuroticism, openness, and agreeableness. Scores of neuroticism in patients were significantly higher [P<0.001], whereas scores of openness and agreeableness were lower [was this Significant, P<0.05]. However, in terms of openness there was significant differences between both groups. [P<0.001]. There is a relationship between personality traits and health. Some of personality traits such as neuroticism, agreeableness and openness were found to be related to IBS