Structural Equation Modeling of the Relationships Between Executive Functions and the Percentage of Artery Blockage in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease: Mediation by the Big Five Personality Characteristics

Background: This study aimed to determine the relationship between executive functions and the percentage of artery blockage as mediated by the big 5 personality characteristics in patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Accordingly, we used structural modeling to test a hypothesized model. Methods: The research method was descriptive and correlational, and the statistical population was comprised of 183 patients with CVD selected via the available sampling method from those who referred to Rajaie Cardiovascular Medical and Research Center in Tehran, Iran. The percentage of artery blockage was recorded by coronary angiography. The measuring instruments were the Subjective Neurocognition Inventory (SNI) and the NEO Five-Factor Inventory (NEO-FFI). The data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. In this regard, the data were calculated using the Spearman correlation coefficient among the factors (the SPSS software) and the path analysis (the LISREL software). Results: The results showed that the personality mediated the relationship between executive functions and the percentage of artery blockage. Conclusions: Executive functions were associated with the percentage of artery blockage, and a part of this relationship was mediated by the big 5 personality characteristics. Therefore, personality traits should be considered in treating patients with CVD. (Iranian Heart Journal 2020; 21(3): 73-86)