Personality-Traits and Self-Esteem as Predictors of Anxiety among Women Living with HIV/AIDS

Abstract

This study examined personality traits and self-esteem as predictors of anxiety among  women living with HIV/AIDS. A total of 360 women selected among HIV/AIDS patients (out-patients and in-patients) at University of Nsukka Teaching Hospital (UNTH) Enugu were sampled. Three instruments were used for data collection: Big Five Personality Inventory, Rosenberg self-esteem scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). Survey research design was adopted while regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses. Results showed extroversion as a negative predictor of anxiety among women living with HIV/AIDS (β= -.313, P< .001), Agreeableness showed a significant negative predictor of anxiety among women living with HIV/AIDS (β= -.499, P< .001). Conscientiousness did not significantly predict anxiety among women living with HIV/AIDS (β= .155, P< .001). Neuroticism did not significantly predict anxiety among women living with HIV/AIDS (β= .506, P< .001). Openness to experience showed a significant positive prediction of anxiety among women living with HIV/AIDS (β= .522, P< .001).self-esteem also showed a significant negative predictor of anxiety among women living with HIV/AIDS (β= -.267, P< .001). Findings of the study were discussed in relation to literature reviewed and suggestions for further studies were also made. The study revealed that personality traits play significant roles in anxiety among women living with HIV/AIDS