Disinhibition domain and facets uniquely predict changes in depressive symptoms and psychosocial functioning

This study aimed to understand the role of disinhibition (low conscientiousness)—in conjunction with the other major personality traits of negative affectivity, detachment, antagonism, and psychoticism—in predicting changes in depressive symptoms and psychosocial functioning. Both the disinhibition trait domain and its primary facets (i.e., irresponsibility, impulsivity, and distractibility) were examined. In a large sample (Time 1 N = 605, Time 2 N = 497) of psychiatric outpatients and high-risk community residents, personality traits, depressive symptoms (both self-reported and interviewer-rated), and psychosocial functioning levels (i.e., daily functioning, interpersonal functioning, health-related quality of life, and global quality of life) were collected across two time points. Results showed that the disinhibition domain was the strongest predictor of changes in depressive symptoms and general quality of life levels. Disinhibition facets also predicted changes in depressive symptoms but showed a less consistent pattern compared to the broader trait domain. Finally, the irresponsibility and distractibility facets significantly and uniquely explained changes in interpersonal functioning. The study highlights the importance of assessing the disinhibition trait rather than only negative and positive affectivity (which are well-known correlates of depression), for understanding changes in depressive symptoms and psychosocial functioning. The findings identify potential targets in psychotherapy for individuals with disinhibition traits and depressive disorders.