The effect of Extraversion on stress and resilience levels caused by social distancing measures during Covid-19

Abstract

Since December 2019, the Covid-19 virus has spread continuously to all parts of the world. As a reaction, many governments issued lockdowns and restrictions upon the contacts outside of one’s household. This caused an increase in self-reported loneliness, social disconnection, and stress. This study examined the association of social distancing measures and stress and resilience, with extraversion as a possible moderator. The data was gathered with an online questionnaire (N = 676, aged > 18 years). This study did not assess an association between social distancing measures and stress (p = .27) and consequently no moderation could take place (p = .10), nevertheless extraversion was found to be a significant predictor for stress (p < .05). The study did assess extraversion to have a moderating effect upon the association of social distancing measures and resilience (p < .05). Resilience levels increase, as introverts adhere to the social distancing measures. A conclusion that can be drawn is that social distancing measures are no significant predictor for stress, however they are for resilience. Additionally, extraversion is a significant predictor for stress and resilience and a significant moderator for resilience