Predictors of Puberty Health Behaviors Based on Integrated Behavioral Model Among Girl’s High School Students in Birjand in 2020

Abstract

Background: From the beginning of puberty, girls are exposed to many physical-psychological problems that experience for the first time, so it is very important to pay attention to puberty health. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of puberty health behaviors based on application of the Integrated Behavioral Model (IBM) among girls’ high school students. Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 265 first grade girls’ high school students in Birjand in 2020 using multi-stags sampling. Data collection tools were a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic information and questions related to IBM constructs that were completed self-administered. Data were analyzed by SPSS 19 software using Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression analysis. Results: Spearman correlation showed that all IBM constructs except experiential attitude and control belief had a significant correlation with puberty health behaviors (P ≥ 0.04). In total, about 54% of the behavior variance was explained by three variables of intention, self-efficacy, and mother's job, among which intention was the strongest predictor of puberty health behaviors (P = 0.001). Conclusions: The results of the present study indicate the high predictive power of IBM for investigating puberty health behaviors. Therefore, using this model to design educational interventions and improve behaviors in the field of maturity is recommended.