Personality Traits, Media Exposure, and Deterioration of Psychological Wellbeing in Japan during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This study examined the associations among personality traits, media exposure regarding COVID-19, and deterioration of mental wellbeing among the public in Japan. We conducted a cross-sectional Web-based questionnaire survey among 8000 Japanese men and women aged 25 to 64 years. Approximately half of participants reported deterioration of mental wellbeing. Nearly 20% of participants reported “constant/excessive” exposure to media information regarding COVID-19. As compared with those with low “extraversion” and “less frequent” exposure to media information about COVID-19, those with high “extraversion” and “more frequent” media exposure reported significantly less deterioration of mental wellbeing. In addition, as compared with those with low “neuroticism” and media exposure, those with high “neuroticism” and “constant/excessive” exposure to COVID-19–related information significantly more frequently reported deterioration of mental wellbeing. Under the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19, measures for the promotion and maintenance of mental wellbeing should be implemented considering the interaction between personality traits and media exposure.