Objective: We tested the purported complex relationships between alexithymia and somatization, depression, borderline pathology and general health.
Methods: A total of 139 medical students and 84 members of nursing personnel completed questionnaires.
Results: Thirteen (6%) alexithymic participants indicated more depression and borderline pathology and worse mental health. Path analysis confirmed a significant positive effect of borderline pathology and a significant negative effect of mental health on alexithymia but did not reveal any effects of somatization and depression.
Conclusion: Presence of borderline pathology may indicate higher probability of alexithymia.
Copyright 2004 Elsevier Inc.