A Study of Relationship Between Defense Mechanisms and Depression in Individuals with Alcohol Dependence.

BACKGROUND-: Defense mechanisms are important psychological phenomena in individuals with alcohol dependence as well as with depression. The presence of maladaptive defences increases the propensity of depression in individuals with alcohol dependence. Also, the individuals with alcohol dependence have increased propensity of using maladaptive defenses to cope with depression. AIMS-: To assess the various defense mechanisms in individuals with alcohol dependence and the severity of depression in individuals with alcohol dependence. Additionally, to explore the relationship between defense mechanism types and depression severity sub-groups in individuals with alcohol dependence. METHODS-: It was a hospital-based study, using purposive sampling technique, where individuals who were diagnosed with alcohol dependence during their in-patient admission were assessed for depression and alcohol severity using HAMD and SADQ respectively. DSQ-40 (Defense Style Questionnaire) was used to assess defense mechanisms. RESULTS & CONCLUSION-: In total 50 cases the mean age was 40(±6.5). A total of 60% had depression with 22% being very severe depressed, and 28% & 10% having severe & moderate depression respectively. A total of 68% qualified for severe dependence on SADQ and the rest had moderate dependence. On statistical analysis using ANOVA, neurotic & mature factor scores differed significantly between the sub-groups of depression. Similarly, neurotic factor scores differed significantly between the sub-groups of alcohol dependence severity. Also, statistically significant correlation between severity of alcohol use and severity of depression.