PERSONALITY TRAITS, ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, AND SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS AS PREDICTORS OF MENTAL HEALTH OUTCOMES AMONG COUPLES IN IBADAN METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

Abstract

Mental health is a fundamental component of overall well-being, intricately linked
to the quality of life and interpersonal relationships, particularly among married couples. The
significance of mental health transcends individual experiences, as it affects the dynamics of
relationships, communication patterns, and emotional support systems within couples. This study
examined personality traits, environment and socioeconomic status as predictors of mental health
among couples in Ibadan metropolis. The research design is descriptive. Quantitative method of
data collection was adopted. A sample of 215 participants was selected using a simple random
sampling. A questionnaire focusing on demographic variables, personality traits, environmental
stress, socioeconomic status and mental health was administered to the participants. Data were
analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation and regression analysis
at a 0.05 level of significance. Three hypotheses were tested. The findings of hypothesis one
indicated that there was a statistically significant positive correlation between personality traits and
mental health, r = 0.34, p = 0.000. Test of hypothesis two indicated there was a statistically
significant positive correlation between environmental factors and mental health, r = .32, p < .001.
Test of hypothesis three indicated that the combination of personality traits, environmental factors,
and socioeconomic status significantly predicts mental health outcomes (F(3, 211) = 140.26, p <
.001, with R² = 0.67). The practical implication of this finding is that the favourable environmental
factors and socio-economic factors are associated with improved mental health outcomes among
married couples when compared to their counterparts. The study recommended that couples should
engage in open and honest communication to address challenges related to personality differences,
environmental stressors, and socioeconomic pressures, as this will foster emotional closeness and
improve mental health outcomes. Couples should work together to build a nurturing and stable
home environment free from conflict and excessive stress, as a positive environment has been
shown to significantly improve the mental wellbeing of married partners. Couples facing persistent
challenges related to personality clashes or environmental and financial pressures should seek
professional help through marital counseling or therapy to gain coping strategies and strengthen
their relationship. Finally, since socioeconomic status influences mental health, couples should
engage in joint financial planning, budgeting, and goal-setting to reduce stress caused by economic
instability and improve their overall quality of life.