Compensatory Health Beliefs, Locus of Control, Social Support and Quality of Life in Oil Spills-Prone Environment

Abstract

The role of compensatory health beliefs, locus of control and social support on quality of life in oil-spills prone environment in developing countries, especially Nigeria has not been explicated. This study examined the role of compensatory health beliefs, locus of control and social support on quality of life among 453 (age 21-50 years; M= 36.02; SD = 12.04) residents in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Area (LGA’s) in Ondo State of Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was adopted in selecting participants. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire that measured socio-demographics, compensatory health beliefs, locus of control, social support and quality of life. Results revealed that compensatory health beliefs predict quality of life in the study area. Also, social support contributes to quality of life. We suggest that a comprehensive psychosocial intervention program should be carried out to improve quality of life in oil spill-prone communities.

Keywords

• compensatory health beliefs
• locus of control
• niger delta
• oil-spills prone
• quality of life
• social support