Comorbidity of dependent personality disorder and separation anxiety disorder in addictive disorders and in healthy subjects

Psychopathology. 2002 Jul-Aug;35(4):249-53. doi: 10.1159/000063830.

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the comorbidity of dependent personality disorder (DPD) and separation anxiety disorder (SAD) in large nonclinical and clinical samples. Using a cross-sectional method, the relationship between these disorders was studied in 784 healthy subjects and in 708 subjects presenting with various addictive behaviors. DPD was significantly associated with SAD in healthy subjects, alcoholics, drug abusers and anorectic and bulimic patients. The comorbidities of SAD and DPD suggest that specific therapeutic strategies could be discussed. Moreover, longitudinal studies are required to determine if SAD constitutes a risk factor for DPD.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Alcoholism / complications
  • Alcoholism / psychology*
  • Anxiety, Separation / complications
  • Anxiety, Separation / psychology*
  • Comorbidity
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / complications
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders / psychology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Personality Disorders / complications
  • Personality Disorders / psychology*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology*