there is, however, another approach to viewing personality change, the 5-factor model that refers to five basic personality traits, namely neuroticism, extroversion, conscientiousness, agreeableness and openness to experience.
in my experience, treating this personality change is one of the most demanding and challenging aspects of clinical care. it is important to note that 5-factor model treatment targets specific symptoms and as such, the methods will not differ according to how the personality change is classified, unlike the apa approach.
to begin with, this unraveling of personality is not reversible. it reflects the presence of brain damage in key regions that determine one’s behaviour. as both examples above reveal, the individual may lack insight into personality changes, further complicating management.
loved ones frequently feel overwhelmed to see these profound changes. as these partners often tell me, “i no longer recognize the person i married.”
my approach is to combine psychoeducation with supportive psychotherapy and, in certain cases, psychotropic medication as well. to begin with, i explain to the individual and their family members what is going on medically. this point is pivotal given that loved ones frequently feel overwhelmed to see these profound changes. as these partners often tell me, “i no longer recognize the person i married.” education can help both people with ms and their loved ones understand where this behavioural change comes from, that the apathy, irritability or disinhibition is not voluntary or willful.
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