International Journal of Human Kinetics, Health and Education

Gender and Age as Predictors of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Secondary School Teachers in North-East Senatorial District of Benue State

Civir Tyough — 2023-12-30

This study investigated gender and age as predictors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among secondary school teachers in North-East Senatorial District of Benue State. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used. A sample size of 674 was selected from a population of 6,962 secondary school teachers in the North-East Senatorial District using proportionate stratified and simple random sampling techniques. A face-validated 28-item researcher-developed instrument titled “COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy Questionnaire (COV-19VHQ) was used for data collection. Frequencies and percentages were used to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents and to answer the research questions, while binary logistic regression was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 alpha level. The results showed that most of the teachers (89.5%) were not vaccinated against COVID-19, and majority (70.5%) were COVID-19 vaccine hesitant. The results of binary logistic regression analysis showed that gender did not significantly predict COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (OR = 1.034, p = .885, 95% CI = 0.660 - 1.618). The results, however, showed that age significantly predicted COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy (OR = 0.009, p < .001, 95% CI = 0.003 - 0.025) as the participants of younger age were more likely to be hesitant than participants aged 50 years or above. The authors therefore, recommended that the Government of Benue State should make COVID-19 vaccination a condition for teaching in all schools in the state, and the intervention efforts in curbing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy should specifically target teachers of younger age.

Acceptance And Use of Insecticide Treated Nets for Malaria Prevention among Students of College of Education Gidan-Waya, Kaduna State, Nigeria

J. J. Chock — 2023-12-30

Although insecticide treated nets (ITNs) been the most effective tool for the malaria control and prevention, there is still poor acceptance and ineffective utilization of ITNs in Nigeria especially among students. The study was to ascertained the level of awareness, acceptance and utilization, and the factors affecting the utilization of insecticide treated nets among students in College of Education Gidan-Waya on the benefit of ITNs as an effective tool in prevention of malaria. A descriptive survey design was adopted. A self-constructed close ended questionnaire was used for data collection. The target population for the study was 6,225 200L student teachers from which 400 respondents were obtained through a simple random sampling technique. Data was analyzed using tables, percentage and figures. The findings revealed that majority of respondents 320 (80%) are aware and have accepted the use of ITNs as a means for prevention of malaria but due to certain constraints such as side effects, cost, unavailability of ITNs and poor implementation. Based on these facts, the researchers recommended a tactical approach with proper organization of seminars and enlightenment campaign on the need for acceptance and utilization of ITNs.

Prevalence and Socio-demographic Factors of Sexual Violence among Female Undergraduates in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka Campus, Enugu State

Samuel I. C. Dibia — 2023-12-30

Sexual violence is a serious public health menace that calls for attention. Prevalence of sexual violence among female undergraduates in University of Nigeria, Nsukka is unknown and could be attributed to some socio-demographic factors. The study investigated prevalence and socio-demographic factors of sexual violence among female undergraduates in the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) Campus, Enugu State. The cross-sectional research design was used for the study. The population for the study comprised of 15,744 female undergraduates in UNN. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to draw the sample size of 405students. A self-developed Prevalence Sexual Violence Questionnaire’ (PSVQ) was used for data collection. Three experts from the Department of Human Kinetics and Health Education validated the instrument. Spearman Brown’s Correlation formula was used to test reliability of the PSVQ which yielded an internal consistency of 0.815. Out of the 405 questionnaires that were administered, only 392 were completed and used for analysis. The SPSS version 25 was employed for data coding. Frequency and percentage were used to analyse and answer the research questions, while Chi-Square statistics was used to test the null hypotheses at .05 alpha level. The findings indicated that 52.8 per cent of female undergraduates have experienced at least one form of sexual violence. Age, year of study, and relationship statuses were significantly associated with the prevalence of sexual violence among female undergraduates in UNN. However, stiffer punishments and measures should be put in place so as to discourage acts of sexual violence as well as ensure that there are adequate and accessible pathways for easy reporting of acts of sexual violence.

School Climate as Correlates of Stress Coping Ability, Learning Satisfaction, Self-Efficacy and Social Unrest among Students in University of Benin, Benin City

Osarentin Samuel Olikiabo — 2023-12-30

This study investigated the correlation indices of school climate with stress coping ability, learning satisfaction, self-efficacy and social unrest among undergraduates in the University of Benin, Nigeria. Four hypotheses were formulated. A descriptive correlation research design was used for the study and a population of 420 full time undergraduate students was selected for the study with emphasis on those in their penultimate and final year, using multi-stage sampling technique of stratified, simple, proportionate and purposive sampling techniques, in which 205 and 215 penultimate and final year students were selected respectively. Two sets of self-reported questionnaires were used for data collection. Psychometric properties of the instrument were ascertained for accuracy and reliability. Collected data were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that stress coping ability, learning satisfaction, self-efficacy and social unrest were positively correlated to school climate. From the values of percentage of variability, school climate account significantly for stress coping ability, learning satisfaction, self-efficacy and social unrest among students in university of Benin. In conclusion, school climate is the framework for effective stress management, motivation to learn and work as well as enhanced interest. Therefore, the need for school management and governing council to promote school climate becomes paramount particularly in enhancing students' overall well-being, fostering a positive cleaning environment, and cultivating a culture of academic excellence and social harmony.

Improving Students’ Enrolment in Physical Education in Senior Secondary Schools through Available Prospects and Career Opportunities in Enugu State

Faith Chidinma Omeje — 2023-12-30

This study focused on improving students’ enrolment in physical education in senior secondary schools through available prospects and career opportunities in Enugu State. It was an expert-based cross-sectional survey conducted in Enugu State, Nigeria. The population for the study comprised 58 PE experts with minimum of master’s degree qualification, currently working as academic staff in tertiary institutions. Using a purposive sampling technique, 50 experts were sampled and surveyed. A researcher-designed self-administered instrument titled “Students’ Enrolment in Physical Education Questionnaire - SEPEQ” with a reliability index of .91 was used for data collection. Mean scores and standard deviation were used to answer the research question, while independent t-test statistics was adopted in testing the null hypothesis at p≤.05. The findings indicated that overall, PE experts considered the proposed strategies such as: organizing routine seminars for all students in the junior secondary school level with strong emphasis on educating them on the available prospects and career opportunities in PE by the school authority, appropriate for improving students’ understanding of available prospects and career opportunities in PE (=3.53; SD=.57). There was no significant difference in improving students’ enrolment in PE in secondary schools through available prospects and career opportunities based on experts’ socio-demographic characteristics (gender, educational qualification, and work experience - p>.05). In conclusion, the experts considered organizing routine seminars for all students in the junior secondary school level with strong emphasis on educating them on the available prospects and career opportunities in PE by the school authority among others appropriate. No significant difference was recorded on the appropriateness of the strategies based on socio-demographic variables. Therefore, the need for educational institutions to adopt the validated strategies for improving students’ enrolment in PE in SSS becomes very essential.

Flood Risk Awareness and Enhancement Strategies among Community Dwellers in Plateau State, Nigeria

Yakubu Dauda Izang — 2023-12-30

The study investigated flood risk awareness and enhancement strategies among community-dwelling adults in Plateau State, Nigeria. Four specific objectives with four corresponding research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted mixed-methods approach. The sample size consisted of 810 community-dwelling adults and 23 staff of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in Plateau State. The Flood Risk Awareness Questionnaire (FRAQ), In-depth Interview Guide on Flood Risk Awareness (IDGFRA), and Flood Risk Awareness and Enhancement Strategies Questionnaire (FRAESQ) were used for data collection. Face validity of the two instruments (FRAQ and IDGFRA) were established by seven experts. The reliability coefficients of .96 and .83 were obtained for sections B and C, respectively. Mean and standard deviation was used to answer the research questions. Also, the null hypotheses were tested using independent samples t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at 0.05 level of significance and appropriate degrees of freedom. The quantitative findings showed that community-dwelling Adults were aware of flood risk to a moderate extent (= 2.93, SD = 0.77).There was a significant difference in the extent of flood risk awareness among community-dwelling adults in Plateau State based on age, F(3,785) = 9.335, P = 0.000. The experts considered the enhancement strategies for flood risk awareness among community-dwelling adults appropriate. Based on the study's findings, it was recommended, among others, that flood risk awareness education campaigns should be intensified at the community levels to improve community-dwelling adults' flood risk awareness levels in Plateau State.

Influence of Culture on Adolescents’ Indulgence in Substance Abuse

O. M. Awoniyi — 2023-12-30

Substance abuse among adolescents is a major public health issue globally and in Nigeria. Cultural traditions in Nigeria play a role in substance use from a young age during festivals and rites of passage. This paper examined how aspects of Nigerian culture and ceremonies may encourage substance abuse among the adolescents. A review of previous literature and health reports was conducted to identify commonly abused substances among Nigerian adolescents and cultural factors linked to their early uptake. Peer-reviewed studies were analyzed to understand impacts of substance abuse on physical, mental and social well-being. Potential strategies were outlined based on effective practices in other countries. Findings showed that: coming-of-age rituals, festival drinking customs, social expectations, and hospitality norms can pressure adolescents into substance abuse. Impacts include increased risks for injuries, diseases, mental health issues, poor academics and social dysfunction. Strategies included sensitizing communities, strengthening regulatory policies and developing youth diversion programs. The paper concludes that while cultural heritage holds significance, there is the need for collaborative public health efforts with traditional institutions to redefine practices that currently enable substance misuse and endanger adolescent futures.

Teachers’ Attitude towards Bullying among Boarding Secondary School Students in Nsukka Local Government Area, Enugu State

Amaka. H. Ononuju — 2023-12-30

Bullying is a social and public health problem in form of anti-social behaviours seen occurring mostly among adolescents, particularly, those in boarding schools. The study investigated attitude of teachers towards bullying among boarding secondary school students in Nsukka Local Government Area (LGA), Enugu State. The population for the study consisted of 385 secondary school teachers in the seven public boarding secondary schools in Nsukka Local Government Area. The population was considered manageable, therefore, there was no sampling done. A valid and reliable structured Teachers’ Attitude towards Adolescent Bullying Questionnaire (TAABQ) was used to collect data. Mean and standard deviations were used to answer the research questions, while a One –way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and independent samples t-test were used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. Results showed that teachers in boarding secondary schools in Nsukka LGA., Enugu State had positive attitude towards bullying ( = 3.54, SD= .544). There was a significant difference in the attitude of teachers towards bullying based on years of teaching experience (p-value = .047 < .05). There was no significant difference in the attitude of teachers towards bullying based on gender (p-value = 0.116 > .05). The authors concluded that in boarding schools in Nuskka LGA, bullying in all its forms receives collective intervention by teachers and recommended that schools should have a clear anti-bullying policy that encourages sustained teachers’ positive attitude towards bullying irrespective of their years of teaching experience and gender.

Parental Choice Influence in Promoting Students’ Enrolment in Physical Education in Senior Secondary Schools in Enugu State

Faith Chidinma Omeje — 2023-12-30

This study investigated parental choice influence in promoting students’ enrolment in Physical Education [PE] in Senior Secondary Schools [SSS] in Enugu State. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey research design and was conducted in Enugu State, Nigeria. A total of 58 PE experts constituted the study population and were studied. Possession of master’s degree qualification and working as academic staff in tertiary institutions qualifies an expert. A researcher-designed self-administered instrument called “Parental Choice Influence in Physical Education Questionnaire [PACIPEQ] which demonstrated .91 internal consistency Cronbach’s Alpha value was used for data collection. Mean value and standard deviation was adopted for answering research question while independent samples t-test statistics was used to test hypothesis at .05 significance. The study revealed that PE experts considered parents’ enlightenment on the need to make choices regarding subject of interest (=2.98; SD=.99), having corresponding relationship and understanding (=2.96; SD=1.04) and parents’ decisions regarding choice of subjects (=2.94; SD=1.03) as viable strategies for promoting students’ enrolment in PE in SSS. No significant difference was recorded in the parental choice influence in promoting students’ enrolment in PE in SSS based on experts’ educational qualification and years of work experience (p>.05), while difference existed on gender (p<.05). Conclusively, the experts considered parents’ enlightenment, corresponding relationship and understanding as well as parents’ decisions regarding choice of PE subject as viable strategies for promoting students’ enrolment in PE in SSS in Enugu State. Therefore, the need for accommodating parental choice in promoting students’ enrolment in PE in SSS by the school administration and PE experts regardless of socio-demographic variations becomes paramount.

Sports Stress in 21st Century

Blessing O. Emoghene — 2023-12-30

Stress affects athletes' life and performance, therefore understanding its many facets is crucial in sports. Nigerian athletes face a complex problem of sports stress in the 21st century. Athletes' physical, mental, and performance are deeply affected by sports stress. This research examines sports stress in Nigeria and proposes a complete management plan. We suggest an integrated strategy to reduce sports-related stress based on Bronfenbrenner ecological system theory and many academic contributions. The Nigerian athlete-specific approach emphasizes cultural awareness and community support. It respects athletes' varying cultural and linguistic origins and emphasizes the significance of knowing how stress is viewed and experienced differently. To equip athletes to manage stress holistically, the concept offers psychoeducation, family-centered techniques, and religious and cultural traditions. The approach also stresses the need of collaboration between athletes, coaches, support personnel, and the community to build social cohesion and resilience. It recognizes that athletes must be enabled to build personalized stress-reduction tactics that match their particular experiences. In Nigeria, sports stress management must be comprehensive and culturally appropriate. The suggested model acknowledges the intricate interaction of cultural, economic, and communal influences on athletes' stress reactions by including Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory. It was concluded that Nigerian athletes need a comprehensive approach to physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being that addresses their particular demands and backgrounds. Hence, Coaches and support personnel require frequent cultural sensitivity training to better understand and meet Nigerian athletes' unique demands.

Gender Differentials in the Awareness of Lassa Fever and Preventive Measures among Inhabitants of Enugu North Local Government Area, Enugu State

Bolaji Opeyemi — 2023-12-30

The study investigated gender differentials in the awareness of Lassa fever and preventive measures of Lassa fever among inhabitants of Enugu North (LGA). The study adopted the descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. The population for the study consisted of all inhabitants of Enugu North LGA which total was 154,808. The sample size for the study was 450 inhabitants of Enugu North LGA using simple sampling technique of balloting without replacement. The instrument for data collection was Gender Differentials Awareness of Preventive Measures of Lassa Fever Questionnaire. The split -half method, through spearman Brown coefficient was used to test for reliability of the instrument,. Frequencies and percentages were used to answer the research questions, while Chi-square statistics was used to test hypotheses. Results indicated that male inhabitants possessed high level of awareness of mode of transmission of Lassa fever (73.93%) as well as moderate levels of signs and symptoms (57.79%), and preventive measures (69.93%), while female inhabitants possessed a moderate level of mode of transmission of Lassa fever (55.11%), signs and symptoms (54.84%), and preventive measures (62.02%) of Lassa fever. Also, Chi-square tests indicated no significant difference in the awareness of Lassa fever and its preventive measures based on gender. Based on the findings it was recommended that regular maintenance of personal hygiene and environmental practices should be encouraged in order to sustain the existing awareness of Lassa fever in the community.

Socio-Demographic Predictors and Preventive Strategies of Anxiety Severity among Students of Tertiary Institutions, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

George Usman Kato — 2023-12-30

This study investigated socio-demographic predictors and preventive strategies of anxiety severity among students of tertiary institutions in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Nigeria. Two research questions and tone null hypothesis guided the study. The correlational research design was adopted for the study. The population for the study comprised 12,578 students of tertiary institutions. The multistage sampling procedure was used to draw a sample size of 408 students of tertiary institutions. The Mental Health Problems Questionnaire (MHPQ) and Mental Health Problems Preventive Strategies Questionnaire (MHPPSQ) were used for the study. Five experts in Public Health Education validated the MHPQ. The MHPPSQ contained 13 items formulated based on the study’s baseline findings. The formulated preventive strategies for mental health problems among students were validated by 10 experts in Public Health Education. The research questions were answered using mean, standard deviation, and point-biserial correlation. Multiple regression analysis was used to test the null hypotheses. at 0.05 alpha level. The results showed that living arrangements (beta = -.129, p = 0.010<.05) and year of study (beta = 0.268, p < .001) were significant socio-demographic predictors of have higher anxiety severity among tertiary institution students. Public health education experts considered the formulated preventive strategies for mental health problems among students of tertiary institutions appropriate. In conclusion, students had mild (weak) level of anxiety. The authors recommended the conduct and implementation of health screening programmes in tertiary institutions to identify students at risk of anxiety severity by psychologists and mental health professionals.

Gender Differentials in Level of Use of Vitamin Supplements among Non-Academic Staff of Tertiary Institutions in Benue State

Francisca Doom Mnyamchie — 2023-12-30

This study investigated the level of use of vitamin supplements among the non-academic staff of tertiary institutions in Benue State. A cross-sectional descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population for the study comprised all non -academic staff of tertiary institutions in Benue State. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 300 non-academic staff from a population of 3,956 staff. The instrument for data collection was a self-developed Vitamin Supplement Use Questionnaire (VSUQ) which was validated by three experts, with a reliability index of 0.92. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions, while independent t-test was used to test hypothesis at .05 level of significance. The results indicated higher level use of vitamin supplements among females than their male counterparts (females M = 2.22 ± 0.84 > males M = 2.11 ± 0.87). Further statistics revealed that there was no statistically significant gender difference in the level of use of vitamin supplements (p > .05). The authors recommended that health committees in the tertiary institutions in Benue State to embark on enlightenment programmes for the safe use of vitamin supplements on the part of the staff so as to enhance their health status