Exploring the Relationship of Personality and Social Support Types among College Students

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between Big Five personality traits and social support types among college students. Data was collected from 189 university students from a research institution in the US. Findings indicated that learners who have Agreeableness and Extraversion personality traits seek for more broadly social support resources in college study and life. Additionally, learners who have Neuroticism traits are negatively associated with all social support resources. It is expected that this study would assist college faculty and student affairs professionals to better understand the differences of personality traits among college students and craft feasible strategies so as to encourage these students to seek sufficient social support resources on their personal development.

Keywords: Big Five personality, college students, social support, higher education

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/11-31-03

Publication date: November 30^th 2020