Interaction of Psychological Variables on Residents Attitude towards Solid Waste Management in an Urban Centre of Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the interaction influence between self-monitoring and locus of control on attitude towards solid waste management among residents in Lagos metropolis of Nigeria. The study adopted the survey design. The study population consisted of residents in Lagos State. The study sample consisted of 375 residents in two local government areas of Lagos State. Three psychological measures namely: Self - Monitoring Scale (SMS), Locus of Control Scale (LOCS) and Attitude Towards Solid Waste Management Scale (ATSWMS) were used to collect data. The data collected were analyzed using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed a significant interaction influence of self -monitoring and locus of control on attitude towards solid waste management of residents (F (1 ,371) =7.056 ,p<0.05).This indicates that psychological factors are very important precursor in the self-reported positive attitude towards solid waste management practices in the study area. The study has implication for policymakers and stakeholders to put into consideration the psychological attributes of residents in the design and formulation of intervention programme and strategies in changing people’s negative orientation and belief in the observation of a desirable solid waste management practices.

Keywords: Self-Monitoring, Locus of control, Interaction , Attitude towards Solid Waste management