Assessing Peoples' Religious Belief Systems and Their Socio-Cultural Behaviour in Atebubu

Abstract

The study examined peoples' belief systems and their socio-cultural behaviour in Atebubu. Specific issues that were critically reviewed included understanding of belief systems, influence of belief systems on relationships and morality, belief systems and health practices and belief systems and crises period. The research is qualitative as the study is about human behaviour. Cluster sampling, quota sampling, random sampling and purposive sampling were used as sampling techniques. Questionnaires served as the main tool for data collection. The study targeted a sample population of 150 respondents out of which 98 were males and 52 females. 40 were leaders and 110 members of the various religious bodies in the community. Descriptive statistics in the form of tables, charts and graphs were used in analyzing the data collected from the field. Gender, status or categories of respondents and the denominations or sects were observed and the study revealed that the people of Atebubu understood their belief systems, the influence of their belief systems on their relationships and moral lives, the study revealed that the respondents knew the relationship that exist between their belief systems and their health practices. Finally the study revealed that times of crises they get answers through their religious beliefs. It is therefore recommended that religious bodies should encourage their members to stick strictly to their beliefs in order for them to be able to fight corruption of the world at all levels. Religious institutions should also use their platform to consciously teach morality in order to minimize the corruption that is prevalent in the nation. It is also recommended that the religious bodies conduct should educate the members on the relationship between moral living and national development.