Integration of the DSM-5 and ICD-11 Maladaptive Traits in Older Adults: Construct Validity of the PID-5-BF+M

Background: The Personality Inventory for DSM-5 Brief Form + Modified (PID-5-BF+M) is a self-report questionnaire measuring maladaptive personality traits, as defined by the dimensional classifications of personality disorders in DSM-5 Section 3 and ICD-11. The instrument combines both classifications to capture six personality domains and 18 underlying personality facets, operationalized by two items each. This study examined the construct validity of this questionnaire in older adults, by examining the factor structure and the reliability of the domains and facets. Additionally, the study investigated the relationship between maladaptive personality traits and resilience, as measured by the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC).

Method: The PID-5-BF+M was administered to 251 older adults from the general population, 104 of the respondents also filled in the CD-RISC.

Results: The hierarchical factor structure of the PID-5-BF+M was corroborated in in older adults. Additionally, the domain and facet scales were found to be internally consistent. The correlations with the CD-RISC showed logical associations. The domain of Negative Affectivity and the facets Emotional Lability, Anxiety and Irresponsibility were negatively associated with resilience.

Conclusion: Based on these results, this study supports the construct validity of the PID-5-BF+M in older adults. However, future research on the age-neutrality of the instrument is still needed.