The Relationship between Personality Traits and Depression among Teachers with Prolonged Illnesses

This study aims to examine the relationship between personality and depression among teachers experiencing prolonged illnesses. A total of 527 teachers (43.3% male and 56.7% female) were selected as respondents utilizing a cluster sampling method. This study employed the Big Five Inventory (BFI) questionnaire and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) to assess the respondents' personality traits and levels of depression. Pearson correlation statistical analysis was utilized to examine the association between personality and depression. The analytical results indicated a significant relationship between personality traits and depression. Specifically, the test results demonstrated significant correlations between depression among teachers with prolonged illnesses and the personality traits of Neuroticism (r = 0.266, p < 0.01), Extraversion (r = -0.532, p < 0.01), Openness (r = -0.106, p < 0.05), Agreeableness (r = -0.647, p < 0.01), and Conscientiousness (r = -0.493, p < 0.01). Overall, the implications of this study emphasize the critical need for teachers to cultivate a positive social environment and establish robust moral support networks with colleagues and family members to sustain their mental well-being. Furthermore, school administrators, District Education Offices (PPD), and the Ministry of Education should develop supportive platforms providing infrastructural, moral, and safety reinforcements for educators managing prolonged illnesses.