Big-Five Personality Traits, Perceived Stress, and Coping Styles among Elderly Residents: A Psychological Perspective

Big-Five Personality Traits, Perceived Stress, and Coping Styles among Elderly Residents: A Psychological Perspective | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Research Article Big-Five Personality Traits, Perceived Stress, and Coping Styles among Elderly Residents: A Psychological Perspective Jisna M This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-7057597/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract Aging is associated with unique stressors that can affect mental health and well-being. Personality traits play a crucial role in shaping how individuals perceive stress and adopt coping strategies, yet research on this topic among the elderly population remains sparse. This study explores the influence of Big-Five personality traits on perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 200 elderly individuals residing in community settings and care homes. Standardized tools including the Big-Five Inventory (BFI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Brief COPE Inventory were administered. Results revealed that Neuroticism was positively correlated with higher perceived stress and maladaptive coping, while traits such as Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness were associated with lower stress levels and greater use of adaptive coping strategies. The findings underscore the significance of considering personality dimensions in designing mental health interventions for the elderly. Psychology Big-Five Personality Perceived Stress Coping Styles Elderly Aging Mental Health Introduction The process of aging is a universal phenomenon that brings with it a unique set of physical, psychological, and social challenges. While advancements in healthcare have contributed to increased life expectancy, they have also intensified concerns related to the psychological well-being of older adults. The elderly population often faces stressors such as declining physical health, bereavement, social isolation, financial insecurities, and reduced autonomy (Taylor et al., 2016 ). These stressors can significantly impact their mental health, manifesting in the form of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and cognitive decline (WHO, 2017). However, not all older individuals experience these stressors in the same way. Research suggests that the way individuals perceive and cope with stress is influenced by enduring personality traits (McCrae & Costa, 1997 ). The Big-Five Personality Model , comprising Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness , and Conscientiousness , provides a well-established framework for understanding individual differences in behavior, emotional regulation, and stress response across the lifespan. Personality traits are considered stable, yet their influence on psychological functioning becomes particularly evident during life transitions, such as aging (Roberts & Mroczek, 2008). For instance, individuals high in Neuroticism are more prone to negative emotionality and heightened stress perception, while those high in Extraversion or Conscientiousness tend to exhibit better emotional adjustment and adaptive coping (Ebstrup et al., 2011). Coping, defined as the cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage stressful situations (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984 ), plays a crucial role in determining psychological outcomes in late adulthood. Effective coping strategies can mitigate the impact of stress and promote psychological well-being, whereas maladaptive coping may exacerbate mental health concerns. In the Indian context, the relevance of this topic is amplified by the changing sociocultural landscape. Traditional family structures that once provided strong social support to the elderly are undergoing transformation due to urbanization, migration, and shifting intergenerational dynamics (Rajadhyaksha & Smita, 2020). Consequently, many older adults face increased stress and diminished coping resources, making it essential to examine factors such as personality that may influence their psychological resilience. Despite the significance of personality, stress, and coping in shaping psychological well-being in older adults, research on this interplay remains limited, particularly among elderly residents of care homes and community centers in India. Most existing studies focus on younger populations, with comparatively less attention directed toward the elderly, who may be uniquely vulnerable to stress due to age-related changes. Given this backdrop, the present study aims to explore the influence of Big-Five personality traits on perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents. By investigating these relationships, the study seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of psychological adjustment in later life and inform the development of targeted mental health interventions for the aging population. 1.1. Objectives of the Study To assess the levels of perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents. To examine the relationship between Big-Five personality traits and perceived stress in elderly residents. To explore how personality traits predict coping styles adopted by elderly residents. 1.2 Hypotheses Based on the literature reviewed, it is evident that personality traits, particularly Neuroticism, Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness, are significant predictors of perceived stress and coping styles among older adults. Considering these findings, the following hypotheses are formulated. H1: Big-Five personality traits significantly predict perceived stress among elderly residents. H1: Big-Five personality traits significantly predict coping styles among elderly residents. H0: There is no significant relationship between Big-Five personality traits, perceived stress, and coping styles among elderly residents. 1.3 Operational Definition of Variables Big-Five Personality Traits In this study, personality traits are operationally defined as the scores obtained by participants on the Big-Five Inventory (BFI-44) developed by John and Srivastava ( 1999 ), which measures five dimensions of personality: Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. Perceived Stress Perceived stress is defined as the subjective appraisal of life situations as stressful or overwhelming, as measured by the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) developed by Cohen et al. ( 1983 ). Coping Styles Coping styles refer to cognitive and behavioral strategies used to manage stress, assessed using the Brief COPE Inventory (Carver, 1997 ). It includes both adaptive coping (e.g., active coping, seeking support) and maladaptive coping (e.g., denial, behavioral disengagement). 1.4 Theoretical Framework This study is grounded in two major psychological theories that explain the relationship between personality, stress, and coping: 1. Five-Factor Model of Personality (McCrae & Costa, 1992) The Five-Factor Model (FFM) posits that individual personality can be understood across five broad dimensions: Neuroticism : Tendency toward negative emotions and emotional instability. Extraversion : Sociability, assertiveness, and positive emotionality. Openness to Experience : Curiosity, creativity, and willingness to engage with novel experiences. Agreeableness : Compassion, cooperativeness, and social harmony. Conscientiousness : Organization, responsibility, and goal-directed behavior. These traits are believed to influence how individuals appraise stress and adopt coping strategies, which in turn affect psychological well-being. 2. Transactional Model of Stress and Coping (Lazarus & Folkman, ) This model emphasizes that stress is not solely determined by external circumstances but by how individuals perceive and respond to those circumstances. It involves: Primary Appraisal : Evaluation of whether a situation is threatening, challenging, or benign. Secondary Appraisal : Assessment of personal resources to cope with the stressor. Coping : Cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage stress, classified into problem-focused, emotion-focused, or avoidant coping. Personality traits influence both appraisals and the selection of coping strategies. For example, individuals high in Neuroticism may perceive situations as more threatening and adopt maladaptive coping, whereas those high in Conscientiousness or Extraversion may appraise situations more positively and engage in adaptive coping. This framework proposes that personality traits directly influence perceived stress levels, which in turn affect the coping styles adopted by elderly individuals. Hypothesized Relationships : ✅ Higher Neuroticism → Higher Perceived Stress → Maladaptive Coping (e.g., Avoidance) ✅ Higher Extraversion, Conscientiousness, Agreeableness → Lower Perceived Stress → Adaptive Coping (e.g., Problem-solving, Seeking Support) ✅ Role of Openness may vary depending on individual differences and situational factors. 1.5 Significance of the Study The present study holds both theoretical and practical significance in the field of geriatric psychology. Understanding how personality traits influence perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents contributes to the existing body of knowledge on aging, personality, and mental health. The findings of this study can assist mental health professionals, caregivers, and policymakers in designing personality-informed stress management interventions for older adults. By identifying personality-based vulnerabilities, targeted coping enhancement programs can be developed to promote psychological resilience and well-being in late adulthood. Furthermore, given the scarcity of empirical studies on this topic within the Indian context, this research provides culturally relevant insights that can inform future geriatric care practices in India. 2. Review of Literature 2.1. Aging and Psychological Stress Aging is a period characterized by significant life transitions that may contribute to psychological stress. Older adults often face challenges such as declining physical health, bereavement, reduced social networks, financial insecurities, and loss of social roles (Chou & Chi, 2000). These stressors can negatively affect mental health, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness (Gum et al., 2009). However, not all older individuals experience stress similarly, suggesting the role of individual differences, particularly personality traits, in stress perception and coping. In the Indian context, traditional family structures have historically provided social support to the elderly. However, urbanization, migration, and changing family dynamics have led to increased stress and social isolation among older adults, making the study of stress and coping highly relevant (Rajadhyaksha & Smita, 2020). 2.2. Big-Five Personality Traits The Big-Five personality model, proposed by Costa and McCrae (1992), remains one of the most influential frameworks for understanding personality. It includes five broad dimensions: Neuroticism: Tendency to experience negative emotions like anxiety, anger, and depression. Extraversion: Sociability, positive emotions, and assertiveness. Openness to Experience: Creativity, curiosity, and willingness to engage with new ideas. Agreeableness: Compassion, cooperation, and concern for social harmony. Conscientiousness: Organization, responsibility, and goal-directed behavior. Research indicates that personality traits remain relatively stable across the lifespan, although slight changes occur with age (Roberts & Mroczek, 2008). In older adults, high Neuroticism has been linked to increased psychological distress, while traits such as Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness are associated with greater well-being and resilience (Terracciano et al., 2005). Indian studies, though limited, have begun exploring personality traits in the elderly. For instance, Singh and Misra (2021) highlighted the protective role of Conscientiousness and Agreeableness in fostering emotional well-being among older adults in urban India. 2.3. Personality Traits and Perceived Stress Perceived stress refers to the subjective appraisal of situations as threatening or overwhelming (Cohen et al., 1983 ). The interaction between personality traits and stress perception has been well-documented. Neuroticism is consistently associated with higher levels of perceived stress due to heightened emotional reactivity and negative appraisal tendencies (Ebstrup et al., 2011). Conversely, individuals high in Extraversion and Conscientiousness often report lower stress levels, attributed to better social support and proactive coping (Ebstrup et al., 2011). Agreeableness may buffer stress through enhanced interpersonal relationships and reduced conflict (Suls & Martin, 2005). The role of Openness remains inconclusive, though some studies suggest that openness to new experiences may facilitate cognitive flexibility in managing stress (McCrae, 1996). Among older adults, personality traits significantly influence how age-related challenges are perceived and appraised. However, literature focusing on these dynamics in the Indian elderly population is scarce, warranting further investigation. 2.4. Coping Styles in Later Life Coping is defined as cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage specific external and/or internal demands that are appraised as taxing or exceeding the individual’s resources (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984 ). Coping styles are broadly categorized as: Problem-focused coping: Efforts to change the stressor or its impact. Emotion-focused coping: Efforts to regulate emotional responses to the stressor. Avoidant coping: Disengagement or denial of the stressor. Research suggests that effective coping is crucial for psychological well-being among the elderly. Aldwin et al. (2011) noted that older adults often shift toward emotion-focused coping, given the uncontrollable nature of certain age-related stressors such as health decline. In India, cultural values emphasizing acceptance, spiritual coping, and family support significantly influence coping patterns among older adults (Kumar et al., 2018). 2.5. Personality Traits and Coping Styles Empirical studies have shown that personality traits are significant predictors of coping styles: Neuroticism is associated with maladaptive coping strategies such as avoidance, rumination, and emotional venting (Connor-Smith & Flachsbart, 2007). Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness are linked to adaptive coping styles, including problem-solving, seeking social support, and positive reinterpretation (O'Brien & DeLongis, 1996). The role of Openness in coping remains mixed, with some studies indicating associations with cognitive flexibility, while others find no significant links (Williams et al., 2009). Despite these findings, there remains a paucity of research exploring how these personality-coping dynamics operate among the elderly, particularly in collectivistic societies such as India. 2.6. Gaps in Literature and Rationale for the Study While the relationship between personality, stress, and coping has been extensively studied in younger populations, few studies have systematically examined these interactions in the context of late adulthood. Additionally, cultural nuances in how personality and coping are expressed and experienced among the Indian elderly remain underexplored. Given the increasing mental health concerns among older adults in India and the recognized role of personality traits in stress appraisal and coping, this study aims to bridge this gap by examining the influence of Big-Five personality traits on perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents. Methodology 3.1. Research Design The study employed a cross-sectional, correlational research design. 3.2. Participants A total of 200 elderly individuals (aged 60 years and above) were recruited from community settings and residential care homes in Kerala, India. Inclusion criteria included: Age 60 years or above Ability to provide informed consent Absence of severe cognitive impairment (screened using Mini-Mental State Examination, MMSE) 3.3. Tools Used Big-Five Inventory (BFI-44) (John & Srivastava, 1999 ) to assess personality traits Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) (Cohen et al., 1983 ) to measure perceived stress levels Brief COPE Inventory (Carver, 1997 ) to assess coping styles 3.4. Procedure After obtaining institutional ethical clearance, participants were approached through elderly clubs, community centers, and care homes. Following informed consent, questionnaires were administered individually, ensuring adequate explanation for those with literacy challenges. 3.5. Data Analysis Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 25 , employing descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and multiple regression analyses to explore relationships between variables. Results 4.1. Descriptive Statistics Mean age of participants: 68.4 years (SD = 6.2) Gender distribution: 55% female , 45% male Majority (62%) lived in community settings; 38% were residents of care homes 4.2. Correlation Analysis Table 1 Variables Perceived Stress Problem-Focused Coping Emotion-Focused Coping Neuroticism + 0.58 * -0.32* + 0.41* Extraversion -0.45* + 0.36* -0.28* Conscientiousness -0.39* + 0.44* -0.22* Agreeableness -0.31* + 0.25* -0.20* Openness to Experience -0.15 (ns) + 0.18 (ns) + 0.05 (ns) (*p < 0.05, **p < 0.01, ns = not significant) 4.3. Regression Analysis A multiple regression was conducted with perceived stress as the dependent variable and Big-Five traits as predictors. The model was significant, F(5, 194) = 21.3, p < 0.001 , explaining 38% of the variance in perceived stress. Significant Predictors : Neuroticism (β = +0.49, p < 0.001) Extraversion (β = -0.26, p = 0.004) Conscientiousness (β = -0.22, p = 0.012) Discussion The findings align with existing literature indicating that Neuroticism significantly elevates stress perception and maladaptive coping, while Extraversion and Conscientiousness serve as protective factors promoting adaptive coping. Interestingly, Agreeableness showed a mild negative association with stress, supporting the view that agreeable individuals experience less interpersonal conflict, thus reducing stress exposure. Openness to Experience , however, was not significantly related to stress or coping, suggesting that in older adults, openness may play a less central role in stress appraisal compared to younger populations. These results highlight the enduring influence of personality traits on stress and coping patterns in late adulthood, underscoring the need for personality-informed interventions to promote psychological resilience among the elderly. 6. Implications Personalized Interventions : Mental health programs in elderly care can incorporate personality assessments to tailor stress management strategies. Screening for Vulnerability : Individuals high in Neuroticism may benefit from early psychological support to prevent maladaptive stress responses. Promoting Resilience : Activities fostering social engagement and structured routines may be particularly beneficial for those high in Extraversion and Conscientiousness. 7. Limitations and Future Directions The study relied on self-report measures, which may be influenced by social desirability bias. The cross-sectional design limits causal interpretations. Future research could employ longitudinal designs and explore cultural differences in personality-stress relationships among older adults. Conclusion Personality traits significantly influence how elderly individuals perceive and cope with stress. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for promoting mental health and well-being in older adults. Integrating personality assessment into geriatric care can facilitate more effective, individualized psychological support. References Carver CS (1997) You want to measure coping but your protocol's too long: Consider the Brief COPE. Int J Behav Med 4(1):92–100 Carver CS, Connor-Smith J (2010) Personality and coping. Ann Rev Psychol 61:679–704 Cohen S, Kamarck T, Mermelstein R (1983) A global measure of perceived stress. J Health Soc Behav 24(4):385–396 John OP, Srivastava S (1999) The Big-Five trait taxonomy: History, measurement, and theoretical perspectives. In Handbook of Personality: Theory and Research (Vol. 2, pp. 102–138) Lazarus RS, Folkman S (1984) Stress, appraisal, and coping. Springer McCrae RR, Costa PT (1997) Personality trait structure as a human universal. Am Psychol 52(5):509–516 Penley JA, Tomaka J (2002) Associations among personality, coping styles, and cardiovascular reactivity to stress. Int J Stress Manage 9(3):131–146 Taylor J et al (2016) Stress and aging: The role of resilience. Gerontology 62(4):419–426 Watson D, Hubbard B (1996) Adaptational style and dispositional structure: Coping in the context of the Five-Factor Model. J Pers 64(4):737–774 Additional Declarations The authors declare no competing interests. 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While advancements in healthcare have contributed to increased life expectancy, they have also intensified concerns related to the psychological well-being of older adults. The elderly population often faces stressors such as declining physical health, bereavement, social isolation, financial insecurities, and reduced autonomy (Taylor et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e). These stressors can significantly impact their mental health, manifesting in the form of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and cognitive decline (WHO, 2017).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever, not all older individuals experience these stressors in the same way. Research suggests that the way individuals perceive and cope with stress is influenced by enduring personality traits (McCrae \u0026amp; Costa, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e). The \u003cb\u003eBig-Five Personality Model\u003c/b\u003e, comprising \u003cb\u003eNeuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness\u003c/b\u003e, and \u003cb\u003eConscientiousness\u003c/b\u003e, provides a well-established framework for understanding individual differences in behavior, emotional regulation, and stress response across the lifespan.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePersonality traits are considered stable, yet their influence on psychological functioning becomes particularly evident during life transitions, such as aging (Roberts \u0026amp; Mroczek, 2008). For instance, individuals high in \u003cb\u003eNeuroticism\u003c/b\u003e are more prone to negative emotionality and heightened stress perception, while those high in \u003cb\u003eExtraversion\u003c/b\u003e or \u003cb\u003eConscientiousness\u003c/b\u003e tend to exhibit better emotional adjustment and adaptive coping (Ebstrup et al., 2011).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCoping, defined as the cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage stressful situations (Lazarus \u0026amp; Folkman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1984\u003c/span\u003e), plays a crucial role in determining psychological outcomes in late adulthood. Effective coping strategies can mitigate the impact of stress and promote psychological well-being, whereas maladaptive coping may exacerbate mental health concerns.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the Indian context, the relevance of this topic is amplified by the changing sociocultural landscape. Traditional family structures that once provided strong social support to the elderly are undergoing transformation due to urbanization, migration, and shifting intergenerational dynamics (Rajadhyaksha \u0026amp; Smita, 2020). Consequently, many older adults face increased stress and diminished coping resources, making it essential to examine factors such as personality that may influence their psychological resilience.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite the significance of personality, stress, and coping in shaping psychological well-being in older adults, research on this interplay remains limited, particularly among elderly residents of care homes and community centers in India. Most existing studies focus on younger populations, with comparatively less attention directed toward the elderly, who may be uniquely vulnerable to stress due to age-related changes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGiven this backdrop, the present study aims to explore the influence of \u003cb\u003eBig-Five personality traits\u003c/b\u003e on \u003cb\u003eperceived stress\u003c/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003ecoping styles\u003c/b\u003e among elderly residents. By investigating these relationships, the study seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of psychological adjustment in later life and inform the development of targeted mental health interventions for the aging population.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1.1. Objectives of the Study\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo assess the levels of perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo examine the relationship between Big-Five personality traits and perceived stress in elderly residents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo explore how personality traits predict coping styles adopted by elderly residents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec2\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e1.2 Hypotheses\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eBased on the literature reviewed, it is evident that personality traits, particularly Neuroticism, Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness, are significant predictors of perceived stress and coping styles among older adults. Considering these findings, the following hypotheses are formulated.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eH1: Big-Five personality traits significantly predict perceived stress among elderly residents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eH1: Big-Five personality traits significantly predict coping styles among elderly residents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eH0: There is no significant relationship between Big-Five personality traits, perceived stress, and coping styles among elderly residents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1.3 Operational Definition of Variables\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBig-Five Personality Traits\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this study, personality traits are operationally defined as the scores obtained by participants on the \u003cb\u003eBig-Five Inventory (BFI-44)\u003c/b\u003e developed by John and Srivastava (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1999\u003c/span\u003e), which measures five dimensions of personality: Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePerceived Stress\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerceived stress is defined as the subjective appraisal of life situations as stressful or overwhelming, as measured by the \u003cb\u003ePerceived Stress Scale (PSS-10)\u003c/b\u003e developed by Cohen et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1983\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCoping Styles\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eCoping styles refer to cognitive and behavioral strategies used to manage stress, assessed using the \u003cb\u003eBrief COPE Inventory\u003c/b\u003e (Carver, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e). It includes both adaptive coping (e.g., active coping, seeking support) and maladaptive coping (e.g., denial, behavioral disengagement).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e1.4 Theoretical Framework\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis study is grounded in two major psychological theories that explain the relationship between personality, stress, and coping:\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e1. Five-Factor Model of Personality (McCrae \u0026 Costa, 1992)\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Five-Factor Model (FFM) posits that individual personality can be understood across five broad dimensions:\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNeuroticism\u003c/b\u003e: Tendency toward negative emotions and emotional instability.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eExtraversion\u003c/b\u003e: Sociability, assertiveness, and positive emotionality.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eOpenness to Experience\u003c/b\u003e: Curiosity, creativity, and willingness to engage with novel experiences.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAgreeableness\u003c/b\u003e: Compassion, cooperativeness, and social harmony.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eConscientiousness\u003c/b\u003e: Organization, responsibility, and goal-directed behavior.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese traits are believed to influence how individuals appraise stress and adopt coping strategies, which in turn affect psychological well-being.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2. Transactional Model of Stress and Coping (Lazarus \u0026 Folkman, )\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis model emphasizes that stress is not solely determined by external circumstances but by how individuals perceive and respond to those circumstances. It involves:\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePrimary Appraisal\u003c/b\u003e: Evaluation of whether a situation is threatening, challenging, or benign.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSecondary Appraisal\u003c/b\u003e: Assessment of personal resources to cope with the stressor.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCoping\u003c/b\u003e: Cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage stress, classified into problem-focused, emotion-focused, or avoidant coping.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePersonality traits influence both appraisals and the selection of coping strategies. For example, individuals high in Neuroticism may perceive situations as more threatening and adopt maladaptive coping, whereas those high in Conscientiousness or Extraversion may appraise situations more positively and engage in adaptive coping. This framework proposes that personality traits directly influence perceived stress levels, which in turn affect the coping styles adopted by elderly individuals.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHypothesized Relationships\u003c/b\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"BlockQuote\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e✅ Higher \u003cb\u003eNeuroticism\u003c/b\u003e \u0026rarr; Higher Perceived Stress \u0026rarr; Maladaptive Coping (e.g., Avoidance)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e✅ Higher \u003cb\u003eExtraversion, Conscientiousness, Agreeableness\u003c/b\u003e \u0026rarr; Lower Perceived Stress \u0026rarr; Adaptive Coping (e.g., Problem-solving, Seeking Support)\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e✅ Role of \u003cb\u003eOpenness\u003c/b\u003e may vary depending on individual differences and situational factors.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e1.5 Significance of the Study\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe present study holds both theoretical and practical significance in the field of geriatric psychology. Understanding how personality traits influence perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents contributes to the existing body of knowledge on aging, personality, and mental health.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study can assist mental health professionals, caregivers, and policymakers in designing personality-informed stress management interventions for older adults. By identifying personality-based vulnerabilities, targeted coping enhancement programs can be developed to promote psychological resilience and well-being in late adulthood.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFurthermore, given the scarcity of empirical studies on this topic within the Indian context, this research provides culturally relevant insights that can inform future geriatric care practices in India.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2. Review of Literature\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e2.1. Aging and Psychological Stress\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAging is a period characterized by significant life transitions that may contribute to psychological stress. Older adults often face challenges such as declining physical health, bereavement, reduced social networks, financial insecurities, and loss of social roles (Chou \u0026amp; Chi, 2000). These stressors can negatively affect mental health, leading to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness (Gum et al., 2009). However, not all older individuals experience stress similarly, suggesting the role of individual differences, particularly personality traits, in stress perception and coping.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn the Indian context, traditional family structures have historically provided social support to the elderly. However, urbanization, migration, and changing family dynamics have led to increased stress and social isolation among older adults, making the study of stress and coping highly relevant (Rajadhyaksha \u0026amp; Smita, 2020).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e2.2. Big-Five Personality Traits\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Big-Five personality model, proposed by Costa and McCrae (1992), remains one of the most influential frameworks for understanding personality. It includes five broad dimensions:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeuroticism: Tendency to experience negative emotions like anxiety, anger, and depression.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtraversion: Sociability, positive emotions, and assertiveness.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eOpenness to Experience: Creativity, curiosity, and willingness to engage with new ideas.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAgreeableness: Compassion, cooperation, and concern for social harmony.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eConscientiousness: Organization, responsibility, and goal-directed behavior.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eResearch indicates that personality traits remain relatively stable across the lifespan, although slight changes occur with age (Roberts \u0026amp; Mroczek, 2008). In older adults, high Neuroticism has been linked to increased psychological distress, while traits such as Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness are associated with greater well-being and resilience (Terracciano et al., 2005).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndian studies, though limited, have begun exploring personality traits in the elderly. For instance, Singh and Misra (2021) highlighted the protective role of Conscientiousness and Agreeableness in fostering emotional well-being among older adults in urban India.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e2.3. Personality Traits and Perceived Stress\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerceived stress refers to the subjective appraisal of situations as threatening or overwhelming (Cohen et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1983\u003c/span\u003e). The interaction between personality traits and stress perception has been well-documented.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeuroticism is consistently associated with higher levels of perceived stress due to heightened emotional reactivity and negative appraisal tendencies (Ebstrup et al., 2011).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eConversely, individuals high in Extraversion and Conscientiousness often report lower stress levels, attributed to better social support and proactive coping (Ebstrup et al., 2011).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAgreeableness may buffer stress through enhanced interpersonal relationships and reduced conflict (Suls \u0026amp; Martin, 2005).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe role of Openness remains inconclusive, though some studies suggest that openness to new experiences may facilitate cognitive flexibility in managing stress (McCrae, 1996).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong older adults, personality traits significantly influence how age-related challenges are perceived and appraised. However, literature focusing on these dynamics in the Indian elderly population is scarce, warranting further investigation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e2.4. Coping Styles in Later Life\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eCoping is defined as cognitive and behavioral efforts to manage specific external and/or internal demands that are appraised as taxing or exceeding the individual\u0026rsquo;s resources (Lazarus \u0026amp; Folkman, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1984\u003c/span\u003e). Coping styles are broadly categorized as:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eProblem-focused coping: Efforts to change the stressor or its impact.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eEmotion-focused coping: Efforts to regulate emotional responses to the stressor.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAvoidant coping: Disengagement or denial of the stressor.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eResearch suggests that effective coping is crucial for psychological well-being among the elderly. Aldwin et al. (2011) noted that older adults often shift toward emotion-focused coping, given the uncontrollable nature of certain age-related stressors such as health decline.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn India, cultural values emphasizing acceptance, spiritual coping, and family support significantly influence coping patterns among older adults (Kumar et al., 2018).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e2.5. Personality Traits and Coping Styles\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eEmpirical studies have shown that personality traits are significant predictors of coping styles:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeuroticism is associated with maladaptive coping strategies such as avoidance, rumination, and emotional venting (Connor-Smith \u0026amp; Flachsbart, 2007).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness are linked to adaptive coping styles, including problem-solving, seeking social support, and positive reinterpretation (O'Brien \u0026amp; DeLongis, 1996).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe role of Openness in coping remains mixed, with some studies indicating associations with cognitive flexibility, while others find no significant links (Williams et al., 2009).\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDespite these findings, there remains a paucity of research exploring how these personality-coping dynamics operate among the elderly, particularly in collectivistic societies such as India.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e2.6. Gaps in Literature and Rationale for the Study\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile the relationship between personality, stress, and coping has been extensively studied in younger populations, few studies have systematically examined these interactions in the context of late adulthood. Additionally, cultural nuances in how personality and coping are expressed and experienced among the Indian elderly remain underexplored.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGiven the increasing mental health concerns among older adults in India and the recognized role of personality traits in stress appraisal and coping, this study aims to bridge this gap by examining the influence of Big-Five personality traits on perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Methodology","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.1. Research Design\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study employed a cross-sectional, correlational research design.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.2. Participants\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA total of \u003cb\u003e200 elderly individuals\u003c/b\u003e (aged 60 years and above) were recruited from community settings and residential care homes in Kerala, India. Inclusion criteria included:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAge 60 years or above\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAbility to provide informed consent\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAbsence of severe cognitive impairment (screened using Mini-Mental State Examination, MMSE)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e3.3. Tools Used\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBig-Five Inventory (BFI-44)\u003c/b\u003e (John \u0026amp; Srivastava, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1999\u003c/span\u003e) to assess personality traits\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePerceived Stress Scale (PSS-10)\u003c/b\u003e (Cohen et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1983\u003c/span\u003e) to measure perceived stress levels\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eBrief COPE Inventory\u003c/b\u003e (Carver, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1997\u003c/span\u003e) to assess coping styles\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.4. Procedure\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAfter obtaining institutional ethical clearance, participants were approached through elderly clubs, community centers, and care homes. Following informed consent, questionnaires were administered individually, ensuring adequate explanation for those with literacy challenges.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec18\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.5. Data Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eData were analyzed using \u003cb\u003eSPSS Version 25\u003c/b\u003e, employing descriptive statistics, Pearson's correlation, and multiple regression analyses to explore relationships between variables.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Results","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e4.1. Descriptive Statistics\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eMean age of participants: \u003cb\u003e68.4 years\u003c/b\u003e (SD\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;6.2)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eGender distribution: \u003cb\u003e55% female\u003c/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003e45% male\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eMajority (62%) lived in community settings; 38% were residents of care homes\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2. Correlation Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e\u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/caption\u003e\u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eVariables\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003ePerceived Stress\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eProblem-Focused Coping\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eEmotion-Focused Coping\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/th\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/thead\u003e\u003ctbody\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeuroticism\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e+\u0026thinsp;0.58\u003c/b\u003e*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.32*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e+\u0026thinsp;0.41*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtraversion\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.45*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e+\u0026thinsp;0.36*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.28*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eConscientiousness\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.39*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e+\u0026thinsp;0.44*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.22*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eAgreeableness\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.31*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e+\u0026thinsp;0.25*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.20*\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u003cp\u003eOpenness to Experience\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e-0.15 (ns)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e+\u0026thinsp;0.18 (ns)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u003cp\u003e+\u0026thinsp;0.05 (ns)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/td\u003e\u003c/tr\u003e\u003c/tbody\u003e\u003c/colgroup\u003e\u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e(*p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05, **p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.01, ns\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;not significant)\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec21\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3. Regression Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eA multiple regression was conducted with perceived stress as the dependent variable and Big-Five traits as predictors. The model was significant, \u003cb\u003eF(5, 194)\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21.3, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001\u003c/b\u003e, explaining \u003cb\u003e38%\u003c/b\u003e of the variance in perceived stress.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSignificant Predictors\u003c/b\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNeuroticism (β = +0.49, p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.001)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eExtraversion (β = -0.26, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.004)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eConscientiousness (β = -0.22, p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.012)\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe findings align with existing literature indicating that \u003cb\u003eNeuroticism\u003c/b\u003e significantly elevates stress perception and maladaptive coping, while \u003cb\u003eExtraversion\u003c/b\u003e and \u003cb\u003eConscientiousness\u003c/b\u003e serve as protective factors promoting adaptive coping.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, \u003cb\u003eAgreeableness\u003c/b\u003e showed a mild negative association with stress, supporting the view that agreeable individuals experience less interpersonal conflict, thus reducing stress exposure. \u003cb\u003eOpenness to Experience\u003c/b\u003e, however, was not significantly related to stress or coping, suggesting that in older adults, openness may play a less central role in stress appraisal compared to younger populations.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese results highlight the enduring influence of personality traits on stress and coping patterns in late adulthood, underscoring the need for personality-informed interventions to promote psychological resilience among the elderly.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e6. Implications\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePersonalized Interventions\u003c/b\u003e: Mental health programs in elderly care can incorporate personality assessments to tailor stress management strategies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eScreening for Vulnerability\u003c/b\u003e: Individuals high in Neuroticism may benefit from early psychological support to prevent maladaptive stress responses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePromoting Resilience\u003c/b\u003e: Activities fostering social engagement and structured routines may be particularly beneficial for those high in Extraversion and Conscientiousness.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e7. Limitations and Future Directions\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study relied on self-report measures, which may be influenced by social desirability bias.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe cross-sectional design limits causal interpretations.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eFuture research could employ longitudinal designs and explore cultural differences in personality-stress relationships among older adults.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003ePersonality traits significantly influence how elderly individuals perceive and cope with stress. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for promoting mental health and well-being in older adults. Integrating personality assessment into geriatric care can facilitate more effective, individualized psychological support.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCarver CS (1997) You want to measure coping but your protocol's too long: Consider the Brief COPE. Int J Behav Med 4(1):92\u0026ndash;100\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCarver CS, Connor-Smith J (2010) Personality and coping. Ann Rev Psychol 61:679\u0026ndash;704\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCohen S, Kamarck T, Mermelstein R (1983) A global measure of perceived stress. J Health Soc Behav 24(4):385\u0026ndash;396\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJohn OP, Srivastava S (1999) The Big-Five trait taxonomy: History, measurement, and theoretical perspectives. In \u003cem\u003eHandbook of Personality: Theory and Research\u003c/em\u003e (Vol. 2, pp. 102\u0026ndash;138)\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLazarus RS, Folkman S (1984) Stress, appraisal, and coping. Springer\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMcCrae RR, Costa PT (1997) Personality trait structure as a human universal. Am Psychol 52(5):509\u0026ndash;516\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePenley JA, Tomaka J (2002) Associations among personality, coping styles, and cardiovascular reactivity to stress. Int J Stress Manage 9(3):131\u0026ndash;146\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTaylor J et al (2016) Stress and aging: The role of resilience. Gerontology 62(4):419\u0026ndash;426\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWatson D, Hubbard B (1996) Adaptational style and dispositional structure: Coping in the context of the Five-Factor Model. J Pers 64(4):737\u0026ndash;774\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":true,"hideJournal":true,"highlight":"","institution":"Chinmaya Vishwavidhya Peeth Deemed to be University","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Big-Five Personality, Perceived Stress, Coping Styles, Elderly, Aging, Mental Health","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7057597/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-7057597/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eAging is associated with unique stressors that can affect mental health and well-being. Personality traits play a crucial role in shaping how individuals perceive stress and adopt coping strategies, yet research on this topic among the elderly population remains sparse. This study explores the influence of Big-Five personality traits on perceived stress and coping styles among elderly residents. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 200 elderly individuals residing in community settings and care homes. Standardized tools including the Big-Five Inventory (BFI), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), and Brief COPE Inventory were administered. Results revealed that Neuroticism was positively correlated with higher perceived stress and maladaptive coping, while traits such as Extraversion, Conscientiousness, and Agreeableness were associated with lower stress levels and greater use of adaptive coping strategies. The findings underscore the significance of considering personality dimensions in designing mental health interventions for the elderly.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Big-Five Personality Traits, Perceived Stress, and Coping Styles among Elderly Residents: A Psychological Perspective","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-07-08 08:41:24","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-7057597/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"34b04f73-3416-4b24-9284-1d8f23a67a19","owner":[],"postedDate":"July 8th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[{"id":51100871,"name":"Psychology"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-07-08T08:41:24+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-07-08 08:41:24","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-7057597","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-7057597","identity":"rs-7057597","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}