Psychology In The Eye Of The Public: a National Survey On Perceptions Of Psychology In Nigeria

Abstract

Public perception is an important matter to every profession because it determines action, relevance in the scheme of things and the direction of public policies. Studies that investigated public perception of psychology in Nigeria are very scanty and most were conducted several decades ago. This study explored the public perceptions of psychology in Nigeria. Participants were 2,027 literate Nigerians randomly selected across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria. Participants’ mean age was 30.9 (SD = 11.5). Of the 2,027 participants, 1089 (55.4%) were males and 876 (44.6%) were females. Psychologists were excluded from participating in the survey but 42.6% of the participants had attended at least a psychology class while in school. Results showed that participants were reasonably knowledgeable about psychology and perceived psychologists positively, although the perceptions are fraught with some inaccuracies and misperceptions. About 85% of respondents perceived psychology to be a scientific discipline; 62% agreed that psychologists are needed in Nigeria; and 76% agreed that psychologists can contribute to national development. Majority of respondents perceived psychologists as most suitably qualified in solving marital conflict, ethnic distrust, attitudinal problems, pathological gambling, emotional problems, cigarette smoking and addiction problems. However, psychologists were rated lower than other professionals (except psychiatrists) with regards to how valuable professionals are to the society. The study concluded that, for the public to value psychologists more, the business of psychology must be conducted with thorough professionalism. The need for professional self-policing was also emphasized.