Farmers' Perception toward Cooperation in Kermanshah Township

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Abstract

Awareness of the perception of farmers toward cooperation is an important step for developing the role of cooperatives in rural economy. The purpose of this descriptive-correlational study was to investigate perception of farmers toward cooperation. The statistical population for the study consisted of farmer heads of families in the rural society of Kermanshah township (N=24391). Three hundred and fifty samples were selected through multistage sampling method. Data were collected through questionnaire. Validity and reliability of the research instrument were respectively determined through a panel of experts and a determination of Cronbach's Alpha Coefficient. Based upon farmers, views, there exists an institutionalized cooperation culture and collective action mentality in the rural society. Farmers possess a relatively proper perception towards cooperation. Stepwise Regression analysis revealed that 64 percent of the variation of cooperation perception was explained by variables of: social solidarity, family relationships, social trust, income, work experience in cooperatives, and awareness of cooperation principles.

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