Socio Psychological Analysis of Modern-day Begging and Rehabilitative Counselling Approach in Lagos Metropolis, Lagos. Nigeria.

Abstract

Begging for alms has been and is still a common sight on the streets of major cities of Nigeria. It is fast turning into an art, a money-making venture or a vocation like all crafts requiring a high degree of tact and experience. This study analyzed different types of begging such as; passive begging, aggressive begging, panhandling, spare begging, forced child begging, online begging among other types of begging. Results obtained from analyses of data collected from participants highlighted the influence of the cognitive processes (thinking and reasoning) on human behaviour. Recommendations made include the need for cognitive restructuring in order for participants to change their perception and attitude towards street-begging. The majority of the participants do not have any observable physical or mental disability. Even for those who have one form of disability or the other, exposing them to the various vocational training programmes that are available in the rehabilitation centres in Lagos State will enable them acquire some skills that can help them become financially independent members of the society.