Influence of Psychological Distress and Gender on Creative Thinking Ability of Students in Tertiary Institutions in Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria

Abstract

Creative thinking ability is a key component in human development and 
has been elusive among undergraduates in Nigerian Tertiary Institutions. 
The ability to reflect and rationalise the thought process is a requisite for 
innovative research and entrepreneurial skill. This study examines the 
influence of psychological distress and gender on creative thinking ability
of students in some selected tertiary institutions in Ibadan, Nigeria. A 
cross sectional survey design and a purposive sampling technique was 
adopted to select 390 participants with age ranges between 15-40 years, 
?????=17.89, SD=7.86 into the study. A structured questionnaire focusing 
on socio-demographic profile, psychological distress and creative thinking 
ability was administered to the participants. Two hypotheses were 
formulated, tested and confirmed. Data were analysed using descriptive, 
independent sample t-test and multiple regression statistical tools.
The results showed that gender (388)=3.24, P<.01) has significant 
influence on creative thinking ability, indicating males
(?????=36.34,SD=4.44) exhibit more creative thinking ability than females 
(?????=34.78,SD=4.90). Additionally, stress (B=.06,?=.37,P<.01), anxiety
(B=-.02,?=-.16,P<.01) and depression (B=-.02,?=.02,P<.01)
independently and jointly (F[3,390]=26.42,R=.41, R²=.17,P<.01) 
predicts creative thinking ability . The study concluded that psychological distress (stress, anxiety and 
depression) and gender have significant influence on creative thinking 
ability of students. The implication and recommendation of study were 
discussed accordingly.