Adolescent Attitudes Research Articles

STUDY OF TEENAGERS' ATTITUDES REGARDING THE RISK OF CHILD MARRIAGE AT AHMAD YANI 2 BAURENO HIGH SCHOOL, BOJONEGORO DISTRICT

A person's Attitude towards an object is a feeling of support or favor (favorable) or feelings of not supporting or not taking sides (unfavorable) on a particular object. The Attitude of teenagers who are not good is a factor in the occurrence of child marriage; they generally do not understand the risks to their bodies. The purpose of this study is to determine the attitudes of adolescents about the risk of child marriage. This research uses a descriptive method. The population is all teenagers at Ahmad Yani 2 Baureno High School, Bojonegoro Regency; in June 2022, there are as many as 226 teenagers. The sample in grades X and XI was taken by accidental sampling, so the number of samples was 125 people. Collect data using a questionnaire, then edit, code, score, and tabulate, which is then presented as a frequency table with percentages and narration. The results showed that more than half of the respondents, namely 66 children (52.8%), were favorable/positive (supportive) that child marriage could result in negative risks, and less than some of the respondents, namely 59 children (47.2%) were unfavorable/negative (does not support) that child marriage may result in negative risks. More than some teenagers have a favorable/positive attitude (support) that child marriage can lead to negative risks, it is hoped that the active role of health workers is to provide counseling to adolescents about child marriage. Especially adolescent girls about a good age for reproductive health and the impact that can be felt when doing child marriage

Passing on the Zzz’s: Adolescent sleep attitudes are associated with sleep behaviors and parental prioritization of sleep

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study is to examine adolescent attitudes about the importance of sleep and how they relate to adolescent sleep behaviors and parent sleep attitudes. MethodsParticipants included families with adolescents aged 10-17years and a parent (N = 170 dyads) who completed a virtual assessment. Adolescents reported on their sleep impairment and sleep hygiene behaviors, and all participants completed a newly developed scale to assess attitudes toward the importance of prioritizing sleep over other activities/responsibilities. ResultsResults suggest that older adolescents reported more negative sleep attitudes, and adolescents reported more negative sleep attitudes compared to adult/parent participants. More negative sleep attitudes were associated with poorer sleep hygiene behaviors. Parent sleep attitudes significantly predicted their adolescent’s sleep attitudes, even after adjusting for family income, education, and adolescent age and sex. ConclusionsThis is the first study to our knowledge to quantitatively examine adolescent sleep attitudes. Findings suggest that sleep attitudes are important for adolescent sleep, and may develop within the family system via parental socialization. Future research and implications for intervention are discussed.

The Relationship Between Interpersonal Communication In The Family And Social Attitudes Of Adolescents In Rawang Village, Pariaman City

The low social attitudes of teenagers in Rawang village are the background for this research. The lack of effective interpersonal communication in the family makes this happen. The objectives of this study are: 1) describe interpersonal communication in the family in rawang village, Pariaman City; 2) describe social attitudes in rawang village, Pariaman City; 3) see the relationship between interpersonal communication in the family with the social attitudes of adolescents in rawang village. The research approach with quantitative with correlational research type. The study population was adolescents in the village of rawang, Pariaman city which amounted to 30 people by making the research sample using stratified proportional random sampling technique. Data collection techniques using a list of questions (questionnaire) data analysis techniques using the percentage formula and product moment. The results of the study include: 1) interpersonal communication in the family in adolescents is categorized as less effective: 2) the social attitudes of adolescents in Rawang village are categorized as low; 3) there is a significant relationship between interpersonal communication in the family with the social attitudes of adolescents in Rawang village, Pariaman City. The research suggestions are 1) for parents to be able to foster the quality of interpersonal communication in the family. communication provided by parents in a family that produces a harmonious relationship; 2) for family empowerment institutions to improve the ability of parents to carry out interpersonal communication.3) Future researchers are expected to observe other variables that are related to social attitudes.Keywords: Interpersonal Communication, Adolescent Social Attitude

Breaking the silence: navigating adolescent knowledge, attitude, and perception on substance abuse in Diyala Province, Iraq

Background: Drug use often leads to a range of health risks, social complications, and involvement in criminal behavior. This study aims to investigate adolescents' understanding, opinions, and perspectives on substance abuse. Methods: Between October and December 2023, a cross-sectional study was undertaken in Diyala Province, Iraq. High school students were sampled using a multistage sampling technique. Bivariate analysis utilized independent sample t-tests and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Additionally, a multivariable linear regression analysis was performed to predict factors associated with knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions. All statistical analyses were carried out using SPSS version 16. Results: The study encompassed 365 students, with a mean age (SD) of 17.5 (+ 8.2), predominantly male (57.3%). Overall accuracy rates for knowledge, attitude, and perception stood at 87.1%, 86.7%, and 88.7%, respectively. Approximately 5.2% of the sample reported cannabis (hashish) use. Regression analysis revealed significant associations between higher knowledge scores and male gender (p=0.002, 95% CI:0.341, 0.729), urban residency (p<0.0001, 95% CI:1.165, 4.524), and monthly income > US$400 (p >0.0001, 95% CI:0.907, 1573). Attitudes toward drug abuse prevention were influenced by male gender and highly educated parental backgrounds (p<0.001, 95% CI:1.412, 5.223; p=0.002, 95% CI: 2.160, 4.881; p=0.007, 95% CI:1.810, 5.690). Perception scores were significantly associated with male gender (p=0.001, 95% CI: 0.430, 0.691), students from smaller families (p=0.013, 95% CI:2.201, 5.003), and those in the sixth class (p=0.021, 95% CI:1.423, 4.202). Conclusion: While adolescents demonstrate a solid understanding of societal norms and consequences associated with substance abuse, there may still be areas where perceptions can be refined and aligned more closely with the realities of drug abuse.

Hubungan Tingkat Pengetahuan dan Sikap Kesehatan Reproduksi Remaja dengan Triad KRR pada Siswa MA Mafatihul Huda Padaherang Pengandaran

Adolescence is a period of transition, a period of searching for identity, with the flow of globalization and information that is getting out of control, youth can be called a transition season which is very rapid, both physically, psychologically and socially. With the inclusion of various information that is free, not through a filter that is correct according to ethics and normality, it can cause adolescents to be very vulnerable to harmful influences. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of concern for the family and society, and the community even considers it taboo to talk about reproductive issues. The consequences of this change are often associated with stereotypes (prejudice) regarding irregularities and irregularities. This type of research uses a quantitative correlation method using a cross-sectional approach with a total of 47 young female and male respondents. Retrieval of data using random sampling with analysis of the chi-squer test The results of this study show that the characteristics of adolescents (age and sex) are 48.9% female and 51.1% male, the level of knowledge is mostly included in the category of having sufficient knowledge 76.6%, less is 12.8%, most of the attitudes of the respondents negative 76.6%, most of which are included in the KRR triad are not good 66.0%. There is a relationship between the level of knowledge of adolescent reproductive health and the RH Triad with a p-value = 0.004 and there is a relationship between adolescent reproductive health attitudes and the KRR triad with a p-value = 0.001.

The relationshıp between health literacy and eating attitudes of adolescents

Abstract Aim This study was carried out to determine the relationship between health literacy and eating attitudes of adolescents. Subject and methods This descriptive and correlational study was conducted with 1519 adolescents. A Personal Information Form, Turkish Health Literacy Scale-32, and Eating Attitudes Test were used to collect data. Data were assessed by using the SPSS 21 statistical package program with Independent samples t test, ANOVA test, and Pearson correlation test. Results The mean total score of the adolescents on the Turkish Health Literacy Scale-32 was 33.68 ± 10.33 and 31.3% had a sufficient and 28.8% had a problematic-limited level of health literacy. The mean eating attitudes score of the adolescents was calculated as 12.20 ± 12.24 and 20.4% were determined to have a risky eating attitude. Conclusion In this study, it was found that most of the adolescents had a sufficient level of health literacy and normal eating attitudes.

An Experimental Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of PTP on Attitude of Adolescents Regarding Effects of Smoking and Smokeless Tobacco Use and it’s Health Hazards Among Students in Selected High School in Dewas

Adolescence represents a period of substantial growth and potential, yet it is simultaneously a phase of considerable vulnerability. Many young people during this stage encounter temptations to engage in behaviors such as alcohol and drug use, smoking, and early sexual activity, which can lead to a higher likelihood of intentional harm and sexually transmitted infections. In the university setting, a deeper understanding and observation of the impact of tobacco-related illnesses, combined with exposure to more rigorous anti-smoking environments, can gradually lead to behavioral shifts regarding tobacco consumption among young people. This study was conducted to assess the attitude level of adolescent regarding effect of smoking and Smokeless Tobacco use and it’s Health Hazards and find out the association between attitudes level of adolescents with selected demographic variable. Method: The sample was selected for the study includes 60 college students. Evaluate approach and simple random sampling method was used to select the sample. The reliability of the tool was established and the data was collected by using structured knowledge questionnaire, based on demographic data, 20 items on attitude scale. Likert scale was used to assess the attitude score. Result: Adolescents showed that 18.3% of Adolescents had a positive attitude in the pre-test. And 65.0% of them have a moderately favorable Attitude and 16.7% has an Un-favorable attitude. In the post-test, 73.30% of students had an adequate favorable attitude, and 26.7% of them had a moderately favorable attitude and none of them have an unfavorable attitude. The contrast between pre-test and post-test attitude was computed by utilizing student paired t-test and the value is t=17.56 with the degree of freedom df=58 at p<0.05 level of significance. Conclusion: Planned teaching Programme was found to be a very effective method of enhancing favourable attitude regarding effects of smoking and smokeless tobacco .......

Salivary apelin hormone response and dysfunctional attitudes in adolescents in Türkiye: a relational screening model

BackgroundAdolescence is the period in which physical and emotional changes occur through hormones, the individual acquires gender characteristics and prepares for the adult role psychologically and physically. Dysfunctional attitudes are beliefs and attitudes that can lead to depression by causing negative thoughts about oneself, others, and the future.Dysfunctional attitudes negatively affect children’s mental health. Hormones have a significant impact on human behavior and cognitive functions. However, little is known about the role and influence of hormones on dysfunctional attitudes. Apelin is a hormone responsible for controlling emotions by regulating emotional behavior. The level of dysfunctional attitudes is one of the important issues in nursing practice in terms of protecting and improving children’s mental health. However, little is known about the role and impact of hormones on dysfunctional attitudes.This study aimed to examine adolescents’ dysfunctional attitudes and salivary apelin hormone levels in terms of sociodemographic variables.MethodsThe study was conducted in a relational screening model with 151 adolescents aged 9–14 years who were reported to be clinically healthy in Türkiye. Apelin hormone levels were analyzed by ELISA technique in the saliva samples of the participants. In the evaluation of dysfunctional attitudes, the relationship between the score obtained from the dysfunctional attitude scale and salivary hormone levels was evaluated.ResultsIn the study, a negative, strong and statistically significant correlation was found between the average salivary apelin hormone level and dysfunctional attitudes of adolescents (p =.000). Mean salivary hormone levels of apelin in adolescent girls and boys were 0.696 (SD 0.052) ng/ml, respectively; while 0.671 (SD 0.047) ng/ml was determined (p =.002), dysfunctional attitudes scale scores were 52.95 (SD 14.43); it was determined as 59.04 (SD 14.22) (p =.006). On the other hand, the highest average salivary apelin hormone level (p =.038). and the lowest level of dysfunctional attitudes were determined in adolescent girls aged 13–14 years (p =.028).ConclusionsIn our study, we found that while the salivary apelin hormone levels of adolescents decreased, their dysfunctional attitudes increased. We found that adolescents’ dysfunctional attitudes decreased with age. In contrast, apelin hormone levels increased with age.

PERAN MEDIA SOSIAL DALAM MEMBENTUK SIKAP ANTI PERUNDUNGAN PADA REMAJA

This research aims to explore the role of social media in shaping anti-bullying attitudes among adolescents, with a focus on a case study conducted at SMP Negeri 14 Kota Bandung. The research adopts a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving in-depth interviews, observations, and social media content analysis. The results indicate that social media plays a significant role in shaping anti-bullying attitudes among adolescents. Content that supports positive norms, educates about the impact of bullying, and engages in anti-bullying campaigns through social media can positively influence adolescent attitudes. However, social media can also become a platform for bullying if not monitored closely, with the presence of negative content and online bullying behaviors. This research provides a profound understanding of the complexity of the role of social media in shaping anti-bullying attitudes among adolescents, serving as a foundation for the development of more effective educational programs to reduce bullying among adolescents, especially within the school environment.

AUDIO VISUAL METHODS ON THE KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES OF TEENAGERS REGARDING HIV-AIDS AT SMAN 2 Central CIKARANG IN 2023

The incidence of deaths due to HIV-AIDS among young people throughout the world shows an alarming trend. Statistical data shows that every day, 4000 people, including 1100 young people (aged 15-24 years), are infected with HIV. The research aimed to assess the impact of HIV-AIDS health education media using audio-visual methods on adolescents' knowledge and attitudes at SMAN 2 Central Cikarang. The research, conducted in 2023, utilized a pre-experimental design with a pretest-posttest one-group setup. The study population comprised all SMAN 2 Central Cikarang students, totaling 814 individuals, with a sample size of 86 chosen through non-probability purposive sampling. The research instrument was a questionnaire. Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test revealed a significant influence, as evidenced by an increase in the average knowledge and attitude scores of the teenagers regarding HIV-AIDS following the health education intervention (p-value = 0.000). This suggests a positive impact of audio visual methods on adolescents' understanding and perceptions of HIV-AIDS.

SNOWBALL-THROWING METHOD EDUCATION INCREASES THE KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDES OF ADOLESCENTS ABOUT THE MATURATION OF MARRIAGE AGE (PUP)

Background: Maturation of Marital Age is an effort to raise the age of child marriage. The number of underage marriages results in rapid population development, high maternal and infant mortality rates, low maternal and child health, families are often not harmonious, domestic violence occurs, and is prone to divorce. The rate of child marriage in Central Sulawesi is very high, one of which is in Donggala district. Donggala Regency ranks 3rd with 196 child marriages in 2022. A contributing factor is the lack of knowledge and attitudes of adolescents about maturing marriage age. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of snowball throwing method counseling on the management and attitudes of adolescents about the maturation of marriage age at SMKS Al-Amin Wani Method: The pre-experimental research with one group pretest-posttest design was conducted from April 14 to May 20, 2023, at SMKS Al-Amin Wani. Proportional stratified random sampling technique of 75 respondents. Analyzes data through the Wilcoxon test. Result: 31 respondents (41.3%) is 16 years old, 55 respondents (73.3%) is female. the most dominant knowledge was in a good category, 75 respondents (100%). Average increase in knowledge and attitude score of 38.00 and p-value of 0.000. Conclusion: Education on snowball throwing method can improve teenagers' knowledge and attitudes about marriage-age maturity at SMKS Al-Amin Wani.

Parent–Adolescent Connectedness and Attitude to Communicate on Substance Abuseamong Parents of Adolescent Boys

Background/Aim: The youth drug epidemic is growing at an alarming rate in India among the adolescents. In India, a survey by non-governmental organizations revealed that 63.6% of patients who came for treatment were given drugs under the age of 15.It is important for the parents to talk with their adolescent boys regarding the ill effects of substance abuse. The study intends to explore whether the parents have an attitude to talk about substance abuse with their adolescent boys. Materials and Methods: A quantitative descriptive research design was used. 100 parents of adolescents were selected using purposive sampling technique. A validated study questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, extent of communication, and parental attitudes to communicate on substance abuse. Inferential and descriptive statistics was used for data analysis. Results: The projected outcome of the study was to create a statistical data on parent-adolescent communication, parental attitude to communicate on substance abuse and to create for awareness among parents of adolescent boys to take initiation to speak about ill effects of substance abuse and to lead a life free from substance use. Conclusion: Majority of samples had moderate level of communication and adequate level of parental attitude regarding talk on substance abuse.

The effectiveness of an m-Health intervention on the sexual and reproductive health of in-school adolescents: a cluster randomized controlled trial in Nigeria

BackgroundThe implementation of the country-wide comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) curriculum among in-school adolescents remains abysmally low and mHealth-based interventions are promising. We assessed the effect of a mHealth-based CSE on the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) knowledge, attitude and behaviour of in-school adolescents in Ilorin, northcentral Nigeria.MethodsUsing schools as clusters, 1280 in-school adolescents were randomised into intervention and control groups. Data was collected at baseline (T0), immediately after the intervention (T1) and 3 months afterwards (T2) on SRH knowledge, attitude and practice of risky sexual behaviour (RSB). Data analysis included test of associations using Chi-square, independent t-test and repeated measures ANOVA. Predictors were identified using binary logistic regression.ResultsIn the intervention group, there was a statistically significant main effect on mean knowledge score (F = 2117.252, p = < 0.001) and mean attitude score (F = 148.493, p = < 0.001) from T0 to T2 compared to the control group which showed no statistically significant main effects in knowledge (p = 0.073), attitude (p = 0.142) and RSB (p = 0.142). Though the mean RSB score declined from T0 to T2, this effect was not statistically significant (F = 0.558, p = 0.572). Post-intervention, being female was a positive predictor of good SRH knowledge; being male was a positive predictor of RSB while being in a higher-class level was a negative predictor of RSB.ConclusionThe mHealth-based CSE was effective in improving SRH knowledge and attitude among in-school adolescents. This strategy should be strengthened to bridge the SRH knowledge and attitude gap among in-school adolescents.Trial registration Retrospectively registered on the Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (pactr.samrc.ac.za) on 19 October 2023. Identification number: PACTR202310485136014

Childhood maltreatment and engaging in NSSI for automatic-negative reinforcement: The mediating role of alexithymia and moderating role of help-seeking attitudes

BackgroundThere is evidence indicating that childhood maltreatment is linked to the occurrence of non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Nevertheless, the association between childhood maltreatment and the automatic-negative reinforcement aspect of NSSI remains understudied. Chapman's (2006) experiential avoidance model posits that the main factor in sustaining NSSI is negative reinforcement, specifically through the avoidance or escape from distressful emotional experiences. The current study examines a conceptual framework based on this theory and the available literature that explores the potential mediation role of alexithymia in the relation between childhood maltreatment and the automatic-negative reinforcement of NSSI. Additionally, this study investigates how this process may be influenced by individuals' attitudes toward seeking professional help. Methods3657 adolescents (1616 females) completed questionnaires regarding childhood maltreatment, alexithymia, help-seeking attitudes, the NSSI, and its functions. ResultsThe findings of the study exposed a positive link between childhood maltreatment and the automatic-negative reinforcement of NSSI, with the mediating role of alexithymia. Interestingly, it was unexpected to discover that individuals with high help-seeking attitudes experienced an intensification of the relationship between childhood maltreatment and both alexithymia and the automatic-negative reinforcement of NSSI. LimitationThe study's cross-sectional design hindered the inference of causality. ConclusionThe present study demonstrated that it is crucial to consider the impact of both alexithymia and help-seeking attitudes in adolescents who have experienced maltreatment. These findings hold implications for preventive interventions that target the reduction of NSSI behaviors driven by automatic-negative reinforcement.

Understanding the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Healthy Eating among Adolescents in Chongqing, China: An Empirical Study Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling.

Healthy eating is crucial for optimal growth, development, and the prevention of chronic diseases in adolescents. Our study aimed to develop a comprehensive structural equation model (SEM) to analyze the relationships between knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP), and healthy eating among adolescents in Chongqing. An online questionnaire was administered to middle school students in 39 districts and counties of Chongqing, China from 2 December to 15 December 2021 to collect sociodemographic and KAP information. SEM models were constructed to examine the relationships between educational environment and healthy eating knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The Monte Carlo test was employed to assess the significance of the mediating effect of relevant variables. The study included 139,832 adolescents aged 14.8 ± 0.7 years, with a 14% rate of overweight and obesity. Health and nutrition knowledge averaged a score of 3.60 ± 1.50 (correct rate: 60%). Participants had positive attitudes (average score: 13.61 ± 2.29) and engaged in healthy eating practices (average score: 12.06 ± 3.08). The results of the SEM revealed a significant influence of the educational environment on adolescents' knowledge (β = 0.235, p < 0.001) and attitude towards healthy eating (β = 0.143, p < 0.001). Knowledge exhibited positive effects on both attitude (β = 0.225, p < 0.001) and practice (β = 0.054, p < 0.001), while attitude exhibited positive effects on practice behavior (β = 0.565, p < 0.001). The indirect effect of knowledge on practices through attitude was more substantial than the direct effect (ratio 2.361). Our study highlights the mediating role of attitude between healthy eating knowledge and practices. A significant association exists between a favorable educational environment and improved knowledge and positive attitudes toward healthy eating among adolescents. In the future, nutrition and health education should prioritize exploring effective ways to translate knowledge into practices.

A Study on Attitude Towards Social Networking Among Adolescents and Parents

The purpose of this study is to know how students in school and parents perceive social networks. A random sample of 50 adolescents aged 17–21 and 50 parents aged 45–48 irrespective of gender were selected randomly from students in the eleventh and twelfth grades with their parents in Ambala, Haryana, India. A self-developed questionnaire consisting of 60 items about social networking was used, of which half of the items were in favour and half not in favour of social networking. The scoring of the questionnaire was done using scores 1 to 7 correlating to the options from ‘strongly disagree’ to ‘strongly agree’. Descriptive analysis and part–whole correlations and t-ratios were used to analyse the obtained data. The difference in opinion between parents and adolescents about social networking is more evident when one considers the generation gap, income group and rural and urban groups. The attitude of parents, teachers and adolescents towards social networking sites is neutral. Social networking sites are both a boon and a curse, depending upon the level of awareness pertaining to the different aspects such as privacy, accessibility and the purpose for which they are being used.

Adolescent, parent, and provider attitudes toward a machine learning based clinical decision support system for selecting treatment for youth depression.

Machine learning based clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) have been proposed as a means of advancing personalized treatment planning for disorders, such as depression, that have a multifaceted etiology, course, and symptom profile. However, machine learning based models for treatment selection are rare in the field of psychiatry. They have also not yet been translated for use in clinical practice. Understanding key stakeholder attitudes toward machine learning based CDSSs is critical for developing plans for their implementation that promote uptake by both providers and families. In Study 1, a prototype machine learning based Clinical Decision Support System for Youth Depression (CDSS-YD) was demonstrated to focus groups of adolescents with a diagnosis of depression (n = 9), parents (n = 11), and behavioral health providers (n = 8). Qualitative analysis was used to assess their attitudes towards the CDSS-YD. In Study 2, behavioral health providers were trained in the use of the CDSS-YD and they utilized the CDSS-YD in a clinical encounter with 6 adolescents and their parents as part of their treatment planning discussion. Following the appointment, providers, parents, and adolescents completed a survey about their attitudes regarding the use of the CDSS-YD. All stakeholder groups viewed the CDSS-YD as an easy to understand and useful tool for making personalized treatment decisions, and families and providers were able to successfully use the CDSS-YD in clinical encounters. Parents and adolescents viewed their providers as having a critical role in the use the CDSS-YD, and this had implications for the perceived trustworthiness of the CDSS-YD. Providers reported that clinic productivity metrics would be the primary barrier to CDSS-YD implementation, with the creation of protected time for training, preparation, and use as a key facilitator. Machine learning based CDSSs, if proven effective, have the potential to be widely accepted tools for personalized treatment planning. Successful implementation will require addressing the system-level barrier of having sufficient time and energy to integrate it into practice.

FACTORS OF EXTREMISM IN UNORGANIZED ADOLESCENT ENVIRONMENT (PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECT)

Among the group socio-psychological factors, the following can be distinguished: attitudes, prejudices of parents; views, beliefs of the reference group (including a group of peers); influence of authoritative persons in the conditions of the reference group, etc. stress as a result of social modernization and integration/disintegration processes in society; The above factors act along with personal factors, among which are: ideas, attitudes of adolescents; individual psychological characteristics (increased suggestibility, aggressiveness, low sensitivity and a sense of empathy, individual characteristics of reactivity and the course of mental processes); emotional characteristics (a state of mental tension).

Adolescents Knowledge and Attitude towards Sexual and Reproductive Health in Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh)

With a staggering adolescent population of 253 million, India stands as the world's epicenter of youth. Adolescence, a distinctive phase marked by active physical and psychological growth, often initiates the exploration of romantic and sexual realms. Adolescents are particularly susceptible to various reproductive and sexual health vulnerabilities such as unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, reproductive tract infections, and the heightened risk of maternal and infant mortality. This susceptibility is accentuated in regions where healthcare services are constrained and knowledge regarding health matters is limited. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted in the year 2022, with due ethical considerations, among students in the 9th to 12th grades (n=322) in Bhopal District, Madhya Pradesh, a region where utilisation of Adolescent Reproductive and Sexual Health (ARSH) services remains notably modest. The objectives were to assess the knowledge and attitudes of adolescents regarding SRH and to find the relationship between the knowledge and attitude. Data was collected in schools from adolescents aged 14 to 18 years, using researcher-developed structured questionnaires. The findings revealed that the majority (50.9%) of participants had poor knowledge, 34.5 percent showed moderate knowledge and 14.6 percent exhibited good knowledge. About 60 percent of the participants expressed a favorable attitude towards sexual and reproductive health (SRH). The relationship between knowledge and attitude was positive but weak. These outcomes collectively underscore the need for improving adolescents' SRH knowledge and attitudes in the region. Focusing efforts towards comprehensive SRH education and promoting well-informed attitudes may help reduce the adolescents’ susceptibility to SRH vulnerabilities.

Knowledge, attitude, and practices of adolescents and peer educators in relation to the components of the National Adolescent Health Program in India: findings from a cross-sectional survey.

Adolescence is a critical period of growth and development. Many adverse health outcomes in adulthood begin during adolescence, often due to insufficient knowledge and attitudes resulting from a lack of education. Therefore, appropriate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding various aspects of health are essential for holistic adolescent and lifelong health. In India, the Rashtriya Kishore Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK or National Adolescent Health Strategy) has utilized an innovative peer-education approach to engage with adolescents and improve their KAPs. Amid limited evidence, we aimed to assess the KAP of adolescents regarding the six themes of the RKSK, with a particular focus on the status of peer educators (PEs). Our objective was to evaluate these aspects disaggregated by sex and to examine how engagement with the RKSK peer-education program influenced their KAP. A cross-sectional survey of 238 peer educators and 2885 adolescents enrolled under peer educators was conducted in two localities; Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra states. KAPs were estimated using descriptive statistics then disaggregated by gender. Practice scores of nutrition and non-communicable disease (NCD) were modelled upon engagement with RKSK (graded as 0, 1, 2, 3). Knowledge was highest regarding substance misuse and lowest in the domains of sexual and reproductive health, and violence and injury. PEs possessed greater knowledge in most domains as compared to adolescents enrolled under them. Attitudes toward abstention from substance misuse were positive, whereas attitudes toward injury and violence, and sexual health, were suboptimal. Boys exhibited better practices related to NCDs, while their nutritional practices were comparatively worse than girls. The RKSK engagement was associated with better nutritional practices: adjusted relative risks (RRs) being 1.04 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.94-1.15), 1.12 (1.04-1.21), and 1.21 (1.13-1.31), respectively, for engagement scores 1, 2, and 3 with reference to score 0. The relationship between RKSK engagement and NCD-related practices was restricted to the top engagement group. The knowledge regarding sexual health, and injury and violence, was grossly deficient in adolescents. These components must be prioritized in the program because they are critical for health not only across the life course of individuals but also across generations. However, the RKSK engagement was associated with better practices in a variety of domains, which should be leveraged in the future.