PUBLIC PERCEPTION OF THE USE OF WAIST BEADS BY WOMEN IN AWKA SOUTH L.G.A, ANAMBRA STATE

Abstract

This study investigated public perception of the use of waist beads by women in Awka South Local Government Area, Anambra State. It also examined the extent of usage, the reasons for wearing waist beads, prevailing perceptions, and measures that could be implemented to improve public perception of their use among women. Three theories were reviewed in this study: cultivation theory, symbolic interactionism, and phenomenology. Symbolic interactionism was adopted as the theoretical framework. The sample size comprised 204 respondents. A questionnaire and an in-depth interview guide were used for data collection. The quantitative data collected during fieldwork were processed using SPSS and analyzed using descriptive statistics, such as simple frequency distribution tables. The qualitative data were analyzed using the thematic method of data analysis. Two hypotheses were tested using the Chi-square (χ²) test statistic. The findings show, among other things, that the use of waist beads is not widespread. The reasons for wearing waist beads include beauty and fashion, maturity and sexual attraction, weight awareness, cultural identity, femininity, and fertility. Based on these findings, it was recommended, among other measures, that radio and television programmes be sponsored to counter negative perceptions held by some residents regarding the wearing of waist beads. Furthermore, policies should be developed to promote cultural heritage practices such as the wearing of waist beads.