Social Influence And Demographic Factors Determinning Corrupt Practice Among Selected Individuals In Ilorin, Nigeria

Abstract

Corruption has become systemic and institutionalized at all levels in such a way that it has become an integral component of the Nigerian culture. This study assessed social influence and demographic determining corrupt practice behaviour among some selected Nigerians. This cross-sectional survey purposively sampled 920 participants in Ilorin West and South Local Government Area in Kwara state Nigeria. Participants’ ages ranged from 18 to 49years; they completed a questionnaire pack that included the Corruption Behaviour Scale (CBS) and the Perceived Social Influence Scale (PSIS). Results showed that the first model of hierarchical multiple regression analysis corresponded to gender, age and corrupt practice behaviour. The analysis showed the significance of gender and age as controlled variables while age showed significant adverse effects. The most significant variables were social influence. Moreover, job statuses of participants significantly influenced corrupt practice behaviour (F(4,871)=10.265, p<.01) with undergraduates having the highest scores. The study concluded that age, gender, types of job status, length of service and social influence are determinants of corrupt practice behaviour among Nigerians. Therefore, stakeholders should utilize the forensic experts in curbing corruption taking into cognizance these factors discovered during the intervention.