Knowledge–Behaviour Gap in Teenage Pregnancy Prevention among Secondary School Students: Influence of School-Based Health Education in Ward II, Burutu Local Government Area, Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the knowledge–behaviour gap in teenage pregnancy prevention by assessing the influence of school-based health education among secondary school students in Ward 11, Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The sample comprised 60 students selected from Sokebolou and Ogulagha secondary schools through a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire validated by experts, with a reliability coefficient of 0.84. The data were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. Findings showed that students had high knowledge of the meaning, causes and prevention of teenage pregnancy, although awareness of its health risks was low. Health education programmes moderately improved students’ understanding and corrected wrong ideas about teenage pregnancy, but had low influence on preventive behaviour, including avoidance of risky sexual behaviour, responsible relationship decisions and positive behaviour change. Group discussions, real-life examples and clear teacher explanations were identified as useful strategies, while inadequate programmes, lack of trained teachers, inadequate teaching materials and cultural beliefs limited programme effectiveness. The study proved that a knowledge–behaviour gap exists among students and recommended strengthening school-based health education through trained facilitators, interactive teaching, adequate materials and culturally sensitive behaviour-change communication.