Factors Influencing Fast Food Spending among Final-Year Accounting Students at Botho University, Maseru Campus, Lesotho

Abstract

The study examines the spending habits of final-year accounting students towards fast-food, focusing on socioeconomic and psychological variables. Data was collected through structured questionnaires sent via WhatsApp group and emails to 32 students. The research found that desire and individual attitudes significantly influence students' decisions to spend money on fast food, with peer pressure, parental income, and personal preferences being the main factors. Economic factors like promotions and discounts had less impact on overall fast- food purchasing. Bread and potato chips were found to be the most popular and often chosen foods among students, reflecting the trend of university students favouring ready-made meals due to their convenience and fit into busy schedules.