Psychological Predictors of Stress and Anxiety among Youths in South East Nigeria: The Role of Art Education and Creative Expression

Abstract

The mental health of youths in Nigeria, particularly in the South East region, is increasingly under threat due to rising socio-economic instability, academic pressures, identity conflicts, and reduced access to psycho-social support systems. This study investigated the psychological predictors of stress and anxiety among youths in South East Nigeria and evaluated the potential of art education and creative expression as moderating tools. Guided by Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory and the Expressive Arts Therapy framework, the research adopted a mixed-methods explanatory sequential design, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to provide a nuanced understanding of the phenomenon. A sample of 600 youths, aged 15–30, was drawn from secondary schools, tertiary institutions, and community-based youth programs across the five southeastern states. Quantitative data were gathered using standardized psychological instruments: The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7), Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), and the Creative Self-Efficacy Scale (CSE). The qualitative phase involved Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and semi-structured interviews with 40 participants to be engaged in visual arts, drama, music, and poetry-based programs. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS (Version 28) for descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson’s correlation, multiple regression, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to examine relationships and predictive factors. NVivo 14 was used for qualitative coding and thematic analysis. Low self-esteem, poor emotional regulation, and academic overload were suspected determinants of stress and anxiety levels. There is however, the critical need to integrate art education into formal and informal psycho-social support systems for youths in Nigeria. Art not only offers a non-verbal outlet for coping with psychological distress but also fosters identity development, community belonging, and emotional resilience.