Masters Theses

Date of Award

3-1970

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Agricultural Economics

Major Professor

James G. Snell

Committee Members

Charles L. Cleland, B. D. Raskopf

Abstract

The objectives of this study were: (1) to determine if certain variables have any effect on Middle and East Tennessee farmers' attitude toward short term credit, long term credit, credit in general, and their aggregate attitude toward credit, and (2) to determine if there was any difference between Middle and East Tennessee farmers' attitude toward the above forms of credit. The data were obtained from a sample of 400 farmers in Middle and East Tennessee. The technique of random sampling was used to select the sample units in this study. The data were analyzed by least squares step wise regression analysis to determine the effects of the variables which were hypothesized to have an effect upon the farmers' attitude toward credit. Four regression equations were developed for each section of the state. These equations were analyzed by the use of statistical constraints. A test of means was the statistical tool used to test for independence between the two sections of the state. A test of means was also employed to test for independence between farmers grouped according to common characteristics. Little of the variation in the attitude toward credit held by farmers in either Middle or East Tennessee was explained by the variables chosen. Of the eleven variables which were hypothesized to have an effect upon the farmers' attitude toward credit, only six variables were found to have any significant association with the farmers' attitude. Educational level was found to have a significant association with the attitude held toward short term credit, credit in general, and credit overall in both sections of the state. The educational level was positively associated with the dependent variable in all cases. In East Tennessee the size of the farm was found to be negatively associated with the farmers' attitude toward all forms of credit. The extent of the farmers' off farm income had an influence on East Tennessee farmers' attitude toward credit. Whether the farmer was a part time farmer or not influenced the farmers' attitude toward credit in general and credit overall in East Tennessee. This variable was associated negatively with the dependent variable. Whether the farmer's wife worked off the farm or not was found to be positively associated with the farmers' attitude toward short term credit, credit in general, and credit overall in East Tennessee. A significant difference was found between the attitude toward credit held by East Tennessee and Middle Tennessee farmers. Middle Tennessee farmers held a more positive attitude toward credit than East Tennessee farmers.

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