Abstract
Stress is a concept that can have a significant impact on mental health, and individual differences in personality play an important role in shaping the perception of stress. This study examined the moderating role of gender in the relationship between the Five-Factor Model (FFM) of personality traits and perceived stress among South African university students. Using a sample of 975 participants, a moderated multiple regression analysis was conducted to assess gender differences in the way personality traits influence stress perception. The results revealed that neuroticism was the strongest predictor of perceived stress, while conscientiousness and extraversion showed protective effects. Additionally, gender moderated these relationships, with women reporting higher stress levels, likely due to increased neuroticism and societal expectations. The South African context likely further influenced these dynamics, as socio-economic inequalities and cultural factors can shape stress experiences. These results highlight the importance of considering both gender and personality traits in stress management interventions. Future research should explore longitudinal trends and cultural influences to develop more effective mental health strategies tailored to diverse populations.