Abstract:

Procrastination is a phenomenon that causes difficulties in academic achievement and occupational performance in the adult population. It is accompanied by negative rumination and anxiety. It is known that there are differences between men and women in the mechanism of procrastinating behaviour. The question is whether this mechanism is also related to stable personality traits. Previous study showed, that woman reported higher levels of neuroticism, extraversion, agreeableness, and conscientiousness than did men across most nations. The aim of this research is to observe whether the personality traits of men and women in our sample differ according to the level of procrastination, as well as the relationship between personality traits and the experienced level of stress. The sample consisted of 252 students from the university of Prešov, Slovakia (161 of female; Mage=21.05; SD=0.85). Data collection took place during class, via an online questionnaire, respondents were informed about ethics and the purpose of the research project. Lay's Procrastination Scale was used, where 4 groups can be formed according to the level of procrastination (non-procrastinators, mild procrastinators, moderate procrastinators, severe procrastinators). The BFI-2-XS scale was used to measure personality traits. Data were processed through One way Anova and Kendall correlational coefficient. Perceived stress was measured using the PSS-4 scale.
The results showed that none of the students identified themselves as non-procrastinators. Moderate procrastinators were the most labeled group (57, 1% of female, 56% of male). According to the results, differences in extroversion were found in females, depending on the level of procrastination (F=3.918; p<0.05). The more the women procrastinated, the lower the level of extroversion they showed . Men showed no differences in personality traits with respect to the level of procrastination. At the same time, the level of extroversion was negatively associated with perceived stress in both men (-.200; p<0.05) and women (-0.277; p<0.01). The results can be applied in academic and career counseling. Negatively experiencing and postponing obligations but also decisions may be reflected in career choice. Previous research shows, personality traits are also associated with career satisfaction and success rates. Procrastination may be an indicator of inadequate stress coping strategies. In our research it was found that it is introverted women who procrastinate more. Career choice and development should be based on real abilities without the influence of negative rumination. Coping strategies training could be helpful for high school and university students. Further research may follow women's coping strategies in relation to procrastinating behaviour.

Keywords:

Procrastination, university students, personality.