Effects of School Health Lessons on Adolescent Health Behavior Outcomes

Adolescence is a period in which students experience physical and intellectual changes and adopt long-term health habits. This study examines the relationship between health education taught in schools and health behavior outcomes of adolescents. Data was used from Wave I of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health to Adult Health for adolescents in grades 7-12. Eight health lessons were identified along with associated health behavior outcomes. Of the 15 multiple regression analyses conducted in Wave I, 6 associations were statistically significant. A positive relationship between learning about the foods you should and should not eat and eating properly was supported. Additionally, a positive relationship between learning about the importance of exercise and student activity levels was supported. Negative relationships between learning about drug abuse and student use of cocaine and inhalants were also supported. A positive relationship between learning about smoking and ever having tried a cigarette was supported. Of the multiple regression analyses conducted in Wave II, 2 associations were statistically significant. Learning about the importance of exercise was positively correlated with body image, and receiving all 8 health lessons in Wave I was positively associated with overall health. Student gender, race, and grade level were controlled in each multiple regression analysis. This study offers some support for the influence of health lessons taught in school on adolescent health behavior outcomes.Bachelor of Art