GET RICH QUICK SYNDROME AND ITS SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACT ON YOUTH LIFESTYLE IN DELTA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study examined the get-rich-quick syndrome and its socio-economic impact on youth lifestyle in Delta State. The get-rich-quick mentality has become increasingly common among Nigerian youths, particularly in Delta State, where many young people display sudden wealth without legitimate source(s) of income. This behavior has contributed to moral decline, reckless lifestyles, and rising involvement in fraudulent activities. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design using the survey method to collect data from 396 respondents. Questionnaires and structured interviews were employed as instruments of data collection, while descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for analysis. Findings revealed a significant relationship between socio-economic background and the prevalence of the get-rich-quick syndrome. The study also found that social institutions such as family, religion and the media indirectly encourage this phenomenon through unrealistic societal expectations and material glorification. It concluded that the get-rich-quick syndrome negatively affects youth attitudes, family values, and national productivity. The study recommended public awareness campaigns, financial literacy programs, and a national reorientation that promotes honesty, entrepreneurship and hard work among Nigerian youths.