Factors Influencing Health Beliefs Among People in South West, Nigeria

This paper explores the influence of personal socio demographic characteristics on the people's beliefs about the cause, treatment and prevention of disease and illness. A cross-section of 338 participants were drawn from a population of literate adults in Ile-Ife using purposive sampling technique. Respondents indicated the extent of their belief on 5-point likert format scale that consisted of 16 items. The results of the analyses revealed significant influence of age, education and marital status on people's health beliefs. It was further revealed that health locus of control (especially significant others) significantly influenced health beliefs. The study concluded that an understanding of people's cultural beliefs about health issues and practices are essential if meaningful therapeutic intervention would be achieved and sustained. African Research Review Vol. 2 (1) 2008: pp. 177-197