INFLUENCE OF PERSONALITY TRAITS AND RELIGIOSITY ON GRIEF AMONG MEN AND WOMEN IN KEFFI, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the influence of personality traits and religiosity on grief among men and women in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. A total of 153 participants (85 males and 68 females) were selected using purposive sampling technique. Standardized instruments including the Big Five Personality Inventory, Religious Orientation Test, and Grief Scale were used for data collection. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that personality traits jointly predicted grief, accounting for 61% of the variance (R² = .61, p < .05). Specifically, extraversion (β = −.219, p < .05) and conscientiousness (β = −.171, p < .05) have significant negative influence on grief. In contrast, agreeableness (β = .132, p < .05) and neuroticism (β = .298, p < .05) have significant positive influence on grief. Openness showed a negative but non-significant influence on grief (β = −.121, p > .05). Furthermore, religiosity significantly predicted grief (β = −.399, p < .05), indicating that higher levels of religious involvement are associated with reduced grief intensity. The study concludes that both personality traits and religiosity play significant roles in shaping grief outcomes among men and women in Keffi, Nasarawa State. It is recommended that interventions aimed at grief management should incorporate personality sensitive approaches and leverage religious support systems to enhance coping among bereaved individuals.