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 rationalize 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 15-40years, ?????=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 analyzed 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.