The effect of a health belief model based intervention on food consumption behavior and physical activity in school-aged children

Abstract

Introduction: This quasi-experimental research aimed to examine the effect of a Health Belief Model based intervention on food consumption behavior and physical activity in school-age children. The Health Belief Model was applied as the conceptual framework for this investigation. The sample consisted of 46 school-age children aged 10-12 years. Participants received three educational sessions based on the health education program. Measurements of dietary consumption behaviors and physical activity were taken at three intervals: pre-intervention, 2 weeks post-intervention, and 3 months post-intervention. Data were collected using assessment forms designed to evaluate dietary consumption and physical activity behaviors in school-age children. Statistical analysis was conducted using Repeated-Measures ANOVA. The study results indicated that the average scores for food consumption behavior and physical activities of school-age children after the 2-week experiment and after the 3-month experiment were significantly higher than before the experiment at the statistical significance level of .05. This study suggests that further research should be conducted with a sample group of caregivers of school-age children to develop appropriate knowledge about food consumption and physical activities among caregivers. Additionally, caregivers should be able to apply the knowledge gained to their daily lives