Author/Authors :
Afghari, Afsaneh Department of Midwifery - School of Nursing and midwifery - Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Eghtedari, Shokouh BSc - Health Deputy of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Pashmi, Rezvan Health Deputy of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences , Sadri, Gholam Hossein Vice Chancellor of Research - Isfahan University of Medical Sciences
Abstract :
Background: Puberty is an important and critical period of life when children begin to mature biologically, psychologically, socially, and cognitively. Unfamiliarity of adolescents with puberty can lead to physical, psychological, and emotional problems. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of a puberty health education course on 10-14 year-old girls' knowledge, attitude, and behavior. Methods: This was a semi-experimental study and the target population was 10-14 year-old girls. Sampling was stratified and 1670 girls (10-14 years of age) were selected from schools in Isfahan province and were educated in a three months course by health teachers. The content of the educational course including physiologic changes in menstrual period, puberty psychological health, physical signs of puberty, and nutrition during puberty. Data was collected using a questionnaire consisted of 40 questions in three categories (knowledge, attitude, and healthy behavior), filled out by interviewing the subjects before and after the course. Analysis of data was done using descriptive and inferential statistics (t-test, chi square, and ANOVA). Results: All participants completed the course. Mean scores of knowledge, attitude, and also healthy behavior were significantly higher at the end of the educational course compared with baseline scores (p < 0.001). There was also a significant relationship between girls' attitudes toward puberty and their parents' education levels (p < 0.001, r = 0.5) and also between participants' school achievements and their knowledge, attitude, and behavior (p < 0.05, r = 0.6). Discussion: An appropriate educational program including physical and psychological changes, as well as the appropriate
nutrition during puberty improves female adolescents' knowledge, attitude, and behavior. To give teenage girls the opportunity to enjoy their youth before becoming a mother, it is necessary to educate them about reproductive health issues.
Keywords :
Puberty , knowledge , attitude , behavior , education
