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 developmentand 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.