FLUCTUATING HAPPINESS MEDIATED THE INFLUENCE OF ANTI-MATTERING ON AGGRESSION AMONG OFFICERS OF THE NIGERIA POLICE FORCE

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the mediating effects of fluctuating happiness between anti-mattering and aggressive behaviours among members of the Nigeria Police Force in Ibadan. Methods: Using correlational design, 278 police officers in the Nigeria Police Force in Ibadan responded to a survey comprising the Anti-mattering Scale, Authentic Happiness Scale and Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire. Results: Findings from the data showed that anti-mattering directly predicted higher levels of fluctuating happiness [β = 0.159, t = 2.68, p < 0.01]. Fluctuating happiness directly predicted more aggressive behaviours [β = 0.430, t = 7.910, p < 0.01].  Anti-mattering did not directly predict aggressive behaviours [β = .457, t = 1.875, p > 0.05]. However, anti-mattering indirectly predicted more aggressive behaviours through fluctuating happiness [BootEffect = 0.307, BootSE = 0.147, BootCI: 0.048 – 0.606]. Consequently, the model showed a full mediation. Conclusion: The study concluded that, through fluctuating happiness, anti-mattering increases aggressive behaviours among police officers in Nigeria.

Keywords: Anti-mattering, Fluctuating happiness, Aggressive behaviours, Nigeria Police Force