STUDY THE EXPENDITURE PATTERN AND BEHAVIOUR OF HOSTEL STUDENTS IN GREATER NOIDA

The present study examines the expenditure pattern and spending behaviour of hostel students in Greater Noida, with special emphasis on the influence of demographic factors and peer pressure. Using primary data collected from 216 hostel students of Greater Noida of Institutions through a structured questionnaire, the study adopts a descriptive and analytical research design. Two-Way ANOVA was employed to analyze differences in spending behaviour based on gender, education level, and duration of stay in the hostel, while Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was used to identify the underlying dimensions of peer influence on spending decisions. The results of the ANOVA reveal that gender, education level, and duration of hostel stay do not have a statistically significant effect on students’ spending behaviour, indicating a largely uniform expenditure pattern across demographic groups. Ranking analysis shows that food and snacks constitute the highest spending priority, followed by transportation, whereas entertainment and recreation receive the lowest priority. The factor analysis, supported by a significant Bartlett’s Test and a marginally acceptable KMO value, identifies two key factors of peer influence—direct peer pressure and social/group spending influence—which together explain a substantial proportion of variance in spending behaviour. Perception analysis further indicates that while peer pressure contributes to overspending for many students, a majority actively attempt to control their expenditure. Overall, the study highlights that although demographic factors have limited impact, peer influence and social context play a significant role in shaping the spending behaviour of hostel students, underscoring the need for financial awareness and self-control initiatives among youth. Keywords: Peer, Financial, Spending, Perception