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

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 abilityof 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.