Perceived Influence of Menopausal Symptoms on Social and Cognitive Dispositions of Female Lecturers in Universities in Anambra State, Nigeria: A Comparison by Age Group
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Abstract
Background: Menopause represents a significant biological transition that may influence social interactions and cognitive functioning, potentially affecting the professional effectiveness of female lecturers. This study described the self-reported influence of menopausal symptoms on the social and cognitive dispositions of female lecturers aged 45–58 years and 59–70 years.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included 463 menopausal female lecturers from public and private universities in Anambra State, Nigeria. Data were collected between December 2025 and February 2026. A structured questionnaire adapted from the Menopause Rating Scale assessed social (13 items, α = 0.87) and cognitive dispositions (15 items, α = 0.84). Independent t-tests with effect sizes were used (p < 0.05).
Results: Of 463 participants, 216 were aged (45–58 years; mean age 51.2 ± 3.4 years) and 247 were aged (59–70 years; mean age 63.5 ± 4.1 years). The older group reported higher perceived influence on social dispositions (3.12 ± 0.36 versus 2.79 ± SD = 0.31; p < 0.001, d = 0.98) and cognitive dispositions (3.14 ± 0.30 vs. 2.84 ± 0.34; p < 0.001, d = 0.93)). Descriptively, younger participants reported more depression, mood swings, hot flashes, and sleep-related attention problems, whereas older participants reported higher more weight gain, body image shame, forgetfulness, and multitasking difficulties.
Conclusion: Older female lecturers reported greater perceived influence of menopausal symptoms on social and cognitive dispositions. Longitudinal studies are needed to distinguish aging effects from time since menopause.
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