Predictive Factors of the Perception of the Impact of Adolescent Pregnancy among High School Students in Mueang District, Phetchaburi Province

Abstract

This predictive research aimed to study the perception of the impact of teenage pregnancy and analyze the predictive factors influencing high school students' perception of its impact in Mueang District, Phetchaburi Province. The sample consisted of 380 high school students in grades 10-12. The data collection tools included a questionnaire covering general information, knowledge of pregnancy prevention, risky sexual behaviors, access to contraceptive methods, exposure to information, and perception of the impact of teenage pregnancy. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentage, and multiple regression analysis using the Enter method.

The study found that 92.40% of the participants had a high level of perceived impact of teenage pregnancy. Five factors were identified as predictors of this perception: sexual experience (ß = 0.24), having a romantic partner (ß = -0.26), condom use during sexual intercourse (ß = -0.20), exposure to information (ß = -0.15), and knowledge of pregnancy prevention (ß = 0.13). These five factors collectively predicted 7.40% of the variance in the perception of the impact of teenage pregnancy, with statistical significance at the 0.05 level. Based on these findings, educational institutions and relevant organizations can use this information to develop policies or plan activities that promote knowledge, shape attitudes, and enhance healthcare services that support accessibility. Additionally, they can improve channels for disseminating accurate and appropriate information to adolescents more effectively.