Norms and efficacy beliefs in relation to self-reported littering behavior in a sample of Lebanese in Lebanon -

Abstract

The present study examined the role of norms and efficacy beliefs in relation to self-reported littering behavior in Lebanon. More specifically, norms in the form of injunctive norms, descriptive norms, and sanctions were investigated in relation to self-reported littering behavior. Similarly, efficacy beliefs' relation to littering behavior was also assessed in the form of environmental self-efficacy and collective efficacy. Socio-demographic factors in terms of age, gender, marital status, educational attainment, and involvement in environmental groups were also considered. A convenient sample of 300 Lebanese was recruited from different areas in Lebanon. Participants completed the following measures in a counterbalanced order to minimize order effect: Self-Reported Littering Behavior Scale, Personal Norms against Littering Scale, Perceived Littering Scale, Livability Quotient Scale, Sanctions Scale, Environmental Self-Efficacy Scale, and Collective Efficacy Scale. Descriptive, inferential and regression analysis were used to test predictors of littering behavior. Injunctive norms, environmental self-efficacy, and collective efficacy scores correlated mostly with self-reported littering behavior and they were considered to be good predictors of littering behavior above and beyond the socio-demographic factors of age, gender, marital status, and educational level. However, the descriptive norms and sanctions were not significant predictors of littering behavior in Lebanon. The implications and limitations of the study were discussed.