BEHAVIOURAL

This study investigated the behavioural and psychological effects of hostel accommodation on students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN). The study adopted a descriptive survey research design to examine how hostel living conditions influence students’ behaviour, mental well-being, and academic experiences. Data were collected from 101 hostel residents through a structured questionnaire administered electronically, consisting of both quantitative and qualitative items. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies and percentages, while qualitative responses were analyzed through content analysis. The findings revealed that hostel accommodation contributes to positive behavioural outcomes such as increased independence, social interaction, and adaptability among students. However, challenges including noise, peer pressure, overcrowding, and poor facilities were found to negatively affect concentration and behaviour. Psychologically, many students reported experiencing stress, anxiety, and homesickness, largely due to inadequate maintenance, inconsistent water and electricity supply, limited privacy, and overcrowding. The study also found that improved facilities, regular maintenance, counselling services, and recreational spaces were widely perceived as effective strategies for enhancing students’ well- being and academic performance. The study concludes that hostel accommodation has a significant influence on both the behavioural and psychological well-being of UNIBEN students. It recommends improved hostel management, reduced overcrowding, enhanced facility maintenance, and the provision of student support services to create a more conducive and supportive living environment.

This study examined the impact of salesman behavioural characteristics on the performance of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in Edo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the effect of assertive behaviour, manipulative behaviour, and passive behaviour on SME sales performance. A survey research design was adopted, and primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to SME operators and sales personnel in Egor, Ovia North East, and Oredo Local Government Areas of Edo State. A total of 100 questionnaires were distributed to respondents using a simple random sampling technique, out of which 89 were successfully retrieved and found valid for analysis. Descriptive statistics and inferential statistical techniques were employed to analyze the data and test the stated hypotheses. The findings revealed that assertive behaviour has a positive and significant influence on SME sales performance, while manipulative and passive behaviours negatively affect sales outcomes and customer trust. The study concludes that the behavioural disposition of salesmen is a critical determinant of SME performance. It recommends that SME owners prioritize behavioural-based recruitment, continuous sales training, and motivational strategies aimed at fostering assertive and ethical sales practices to enhance enterprise sustainability and contribute to economic development in Nigeria..