Personality traits, romantic break-up and coping strategies as predictors of resilience among University of Ibadan undergraduate students

Abstract

This study investigated the predictive roles of personality traits, coping strategies, and romantic break-up experiences on resilience among undergraduate students of the University of Ibadan. Cross-sectional survey research design was adopted.. A total of 238 participants were assessed using a multi-stage sampling technique, data were collected using standardized questionnaires assessing personality traits, coping strategies, romantic break-up, and predisposition to resilience. Results from multiple regression analysis revealed a significant joint influence (R = .289, R² = .083, F(6,231) = 3.506, p < .01), with neuroticism (β = .225, p < .01) and coping strategies (β = .150, p < .05) emerging as significant independent predictors. These two factors accounted for 8.3% of the variance in resilience. The second hypothesis examined the combined and separate influence of romantic break-up experiences and coping strategies on resilience. Results of this study indicated a significant joint prediction (R = .401, R² = .161, F (3,232) = 14.840, p < .01),
though only coping strategies (β = -.318, p < .001) independently predicted resilience negatively, suggesting that maladaptive coping may diminish students' resilience. Romantic break-up experience alone had no significant effect. The third hypothesis, which explored the role of sociodemographic factors (age, religion, level of study, and gender), showed no significant joint or independent prediction of resilience (R = .146, R² = .021, F(6,231) = .841, p > .05).. Implications for student support services and mental health interventions are discussed.