Effectiveness of School-Based Teaching Program on Knowledge Regarding Recognition and Management of Adolescent's Suicidal Behavior Among School Teachers in Selected Schools in Sikkim

Abstract

Abstract Objective Suicide is a global public health concern. It is the second leading cause of death among 15 to 29 years old. Suicide ideation often emerges in adolescence and is prevalent among this age group. With the help of leaders, teachers as mentors can play an effective role in the prevention of suicide among children and young adults. The present study was performed to assess the effectiveness of school-based teaching programs on knowledge regarding the recognition and management of adolescent's suicidal behavior among school teachers. Materials and Methods A quantitative research approach with a pre-experimental (one group pre-test and post-test) research design was adopted. The study was conducted at Government schools of East Sikkim among 80 secondary school teachers. The samples were assigned through the purposive sampling technique. A pre-designed knowledge questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge of schoolteachers. A pre-test was conducted during the first week of data collection, which was followed by a school-based teaching program regarding recognition and management of adolescents' suicidal behavior on the second week. A post-test was conducted during the fourth week using the same pre-designed knowledge questionnaire. Data analysis was done using the SPSS version 25 applying descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Results The study findings revealed that in pre-test knowledge score, 5% had good knowledge, whereas in post-test, score 50% had good knowledge regarding recognition and management of adolescent's suicidal behavior. The mean score during the pre-test was 12.78 ± 2.87 and the mean score during the post-test was 16.44 ± 2.50. The computed paired “t” value (11.9) was higher than the tabled value (t 79 = 1.99; p < 0.05). An association was found between pre-test knowledge score regarding recognition and management of adolescent's suicidal behavior with gender, religion, and years of working experience at p < 0.05 level. Conclusion The study concluded that school-based teaching programs helped secondary school teachers to improve their knowledge regarding adolescents' suicidal behavior. The gain in knowledge from the school-based teaching program will help them recognize and manage adolescents with suicidal behavior and initiate appropriate referrals in the future.