Influence of Interpersonal Relationship on Psychosocial Well-Being of Consecrated Catholic Women Religious in Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the influence of interpersonal relationships on the psychosocial well-being of Consecrated Catholic Religious Women in the Ibadan Archdiocese, Nigeria. The psychosocial well-being of an individual is essential in enhancing interpersonal relationships. Moreover, psychosocially stable people are physically, psychologically, professionally, culturally, and spiritually robust.  The study adopted a descriptive quantitative design. The target population was 110 consecrated female religious women. The study used a sample size of 86 respondents using a simple random sampling technique with Stovin's formula. The sample comprised 61 finally professed sisters and 25 temporary professed sisters from 16 different congregations. The research used Self-determination theory. The following objectives guided the study: To expound the interpersonal relationship among Consecrated Catholic Religious Women in the Archdiocese of Ibadan, Nigeria; To suggest ways to improve psychosocial well-being among Consecrated Catholic Religious Women in the Archdiocese of Ibadan, Nigeria, through counselling and spiritual direction. The research instruments used were FIAT-Q 2-14 Interpersonal relationship questionnaire, psychological well-being scale, and Spiritual Support Subscale. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Statistical Programme for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 was used to get descriptive statistics. The study established that most consecrated Catholic religious women have mature and healthy interpersonal relationships. They think of a close relationship as necessary and that counselling and spiritual direction are essential in enhancing their psychosocial well-being. These reinforced healthy interpersonal relationships among themselves.  However, most of them had problems receiving feedback from other people and arguing with those who gave unfavorable feedback. Keywords: Interpersonal Relationship, Psychosocial Well-being, Consecrated