Evaluation of Alexithymia, Anger and Temperament Features in Insomnia Patients with Sexual Dysfunction

Aim: One of the most common sleep disorders is insomnia, and it is also an independent risk factor related to sexual dysfunction (SD). The aim of the present study was to investigate the anger parameters, temperament parameters, and alexithymia in insomnia patients with SD. Material and Methods: The study group consisted of 92 patients diagnosed with insomnia according to the third edition of the International Classification of Sleep Disorders. The sociodemographic data form, Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego Auto-questionnaire (TEMPS-A), Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Toronto Structured Interview for Alexithymia (TSIA), Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI) were applied to the patients. Results: While 62 patients had SD, 30 patients had no SD. ISI, PSQI, anger in score were significantly higher in patients with SD (p=0.048, p=0.007, p=0.032, respectively). While depressive and anxious temperament was significantly higher in patients with SD (p=0.026, p=0.008, respectively), hyperthymic temperament was significantly higher in patients without SD (p=0.013). ISI score, depressive, and anxious temperament were significantly correlated with the ASEX score (r=0.214, p=0.041; r=0.261, p=0.012; r=0.286, p=0.007, respectively). Linear regression revealed that depressive, cyclothymic, and irritable temperaments were predictors of ISI (p=0.001). According to logistic regression, hyperthymic temperament was an independent predictor of SD (p=0.001). Conclusion: Psychological factors should also be considered in studies conducted on the relationship between insomnia and SD. Further research is needed on temperament characteristics, alexithymia and anger issues. Thus, patients can be approached more comprehensively.