Influence of Demographic Characteristics on Social Anxiety of Young Adults in Osun State Higher Institutions

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the level of social anxiety across demographic characteristics of young adults in Osun State higher institutions. The study employed a survey design method. A sample of 1600 tertiary institution students (690 male, 910 females; age range 15-38 years) were selected using a proportionate stratified sampling technique from four (two public and two private) institutions. Data were collected with the use of Leibowitz Social Anxiety Scale. Of 1600 students sampled, 0.5% had no symptom of social anxiety while 10.3%, 76.4%, and 12.8% exhibited mild, moderate and severe levels of social anxiety. In addition, there was a significant predictive contribution of demographic factors on students’ social anxiety (R = 0.186, P = 0.000). The study concluded that social anxiety among tertiary institution students was high. Hence, necessary policies to reduce its degree are required from education policymakers while counselling psychologists and mental health experts are also required to develop effective treatment programmes to mitigate its effects on students.