Influence of the Big Five Personality Traits on Intelligence among undergraduate students of Benue State University Makurdi

Abstract

The study examined the relationship between the Big Five Personality Traits and Intelligence among undergraduate students of Benue State University Makurdi. The specific objective was to determine the relationship between the Big Five Personality Traits and Intelligence. It was a survey design, and a total of 250 participants, comprising of 123 (48.4%) males and 127 (50.0%) females took part in the study. The age range of participants was between 16 -31 years and above. The instruments used for data collection was the Big Five Personality inventory and Multiple intelligence profile instrument (MIPQ). Five hypotheses were tested and analysed, using the Pearson Product Moment correlations coefficient. Result revealed that firstly, there was a significant relationship between neuroticism and intelligence. Thirdly, result also revealed a significant relationship between openness and intelligence. Fourthly, result revealed a significant relationship between agreeableness and intelligence. Finally, result further showed th at, there was a significant relationship between conscientiousness and intelligence. Based on these findings therefore, it was concluded that, extraversion, agreeableness, neuroticism, Openness and conscientiousness had significant relationship with intelligence. It was recommended that psychologists and other social workers should research more on people’s personalities and intelligence. This will help improve their understanding of various people and their behaviour, which will help them work efficiently.