Status of and sociodemographic and psychological correlates of personality dysfunction among university students: a cross-sectional study

Purpose This study aims to examine the status of personality dysfunction and its sociodemographic and psychological correlates among university students in Jordan. Design/methodology/approach This study used a cross-sectional, descriptive-correlational design. It was conducted in Jordan targeting 440 university students using a structured format of online survey during the period January to February 2024. Academic anxiety, loneliness, personality dysfunctions and self-esteem were the used measures in this study. Findings Students had moderate levels of global personality dysfunction, low to moderate levels of perception of self-esteem toward themselves, moderate to high levels of academic stress and moderate levels of loneliness. The analysis showed a significant and positive association between academic year and personality dysfunction (p = 0.004). On the contrary, no significant relationship was detected between GPA and personality dysfunction (p = 0.073). Using regression analysis, the model that included all the variables was significant (F 6,439 = 8.67, p < 0.001). In this model, the analysis showed that loneliness in the relationship with family (B = 2.08, p < 0.001) and loneliness due to friendship (B = 1.20, p = 0.035) are significant risk factors for developing personality dysfunctions. Research limitations/implications One limitation of this study is related to the sample and the setting. The use of an online survey and convenience sampling techniques resulted in underrepresentation of the entire types of universities. Practical implications The research provides empirical insights into the association between personality dysfunction among university students and feelings of loneliness, which vary depending on students academic level. Additionally, academic anxiety and self-esteem were found to be associated with or predictive of personality dysfunctions among students. Social implications The current research enhances our understanding of the factors contributing to personality dysfunctions among university students. Connectedness to family and strong robust binding to friends served as protective against personality dysfunctions. Originality/value This study emphasizes the role of social relationships and psychosocial well-being in enhancing the mental well-being of university students.