Factor replicability and validity of the Temperament and Character Inventory in substance-dependent patients

The factor structure and validity of the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI; Cloninger, Svrakic, Przybeck, & Wetzel, 1994) were evaluated in 357 inpatient and outpatient alcohol, cocaine. and opioid dependent individuals. A Procrustes relation of principal components did not fully replicate the TCI's original factor structure in either this clinical sample or in a community sample of 183 individuals who did not abuse substances. These analyses suggested 4 reliable factors that were associated with conceptually related personality dimensions in predictable ways. Higher Novelty Seeking (or low constraint) and Harm Avoidance (or low vigor) were associated with several substance use and psychopathology indicators. Self-Transcendence and a factor we labeled Sociability (Reward Dependence and Cooperativeness) were related to fewer indicators.