Men with and without Alcohol Dependence: A Comparative Study of Triguna, Nonattachment, Personality and Subjective Well-Being

CONTEXT: Indian models of personality are seldom explored in relation to alcohol dependence. Triguna is an Indian model of personality originating from the Sankhya philosophy, whereby three gunas, Sattva, Rajas and Tamas describe personality features. Additionally, the trait of Non attachment which is a concept discussed extensively in Bhagavad Gita is also studied along with Triguna. AIMS: The current study discusses these concepts and attempts to explore their relationship with personality and subjective well-being, among men with and without alcohol dependence. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey method was adopted, with a sample of 84 men from the community without alcohol dependence, screened through alcohol use disorders identification test and 30 men diagnosed with alcohol dependence. Informed consent was obtained from all the participants. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test, and Mann–Whitney U-test. RESULTS: Men without alcohol dependence scored significantly higher on variables such as Sattva, extraversion and conscientiousness, positive affect, and life satisfaction, than men in the clinical group. Men who were diagnosed with alcohol dependence, scored significantly higher on Tamas, neuroticism, and negative affect. CONCLUSIONS: This novel understanding of the personality structure of patients with alcohol dependence from the Triguna perspective may be helpful in the development of indigenous psychological interventions for alcohol dependence.