PSYCHOLOGICAL RESOURCES IN THE FACE OF THE COVID-19 LOCKDOWN: THE PREDICTIVE ROLES OF ACTIVITY ENGAGEMENTS

Abstract

During difficult times, abundance of intrapersonal resources is shown to be useful in ameliorating poor psychological health conditions. Accordingly, this study examined the extent to which activity engagements during the COVID-19 lockdown promote the psychological resources of hope, optimism, self-efficacy and resilience among 531 Nigerian adults (Meanage = 36.33 ± 11.99). By associating data obtained from an activity engagement list and the Compound PsyCap Scale, we generally found out that activity engagements were predictive of all psychological resources except resilience. Specifically, increase in activity engagements predicted increase in psychological resources. The influence of social media use was unique and stronger on psychological resources compared to other activity engagements. Also, the female gender and being self-employed were associated with increased optimism and self-efficacy respectively. Being engaged in activities during periods of lockdown may enhance individuals’ psychological capacity to maintain positive mental wellbeing.   Key words: COVID-19 lockdown; Activity engagements; Hope; Optimism; Self-efficacy; Resilience