Effectiveness of Gender Equality Health Education Program on Knowledge of Adolescents in Vadodara, Gujarat

Abstract

Background: The transitional phase of adolescence is vital for the development of attitudes concerning social behaviors, health practices, and gender roles. A prevailing lack of awareness regarding interpersonal relationships, reproductive rights, and gender equity frequently results in harmful stereotypes and subsequent health challenges. Objectives: The primary aims of this investigation were to evaluate the baseline understanding of gender equality among adolescents and to determine the effectiveness of a targeted health education program in bridging these knowledge gaps. Methods: A quasi-experimental study utilizing a single-group pre-test and post-test design was conducted. The sample consisted of 100 school-going adolescents from Vadodara, Gujarat, selected via simple random sampling. Data collection was executed using a validated, structured questionnaire. The gathered data underwent descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, specifically utilizing paired t-tests and chi-square statistics to ascertain the educational intervention's impact and explore demographic associations. Results: The analysis demonstrated a substantial enhancement in the participants' comprehension following the educational intervention. The proportion of students with poor knowledge dropped drastically from 62% to 24%, while those exhibiting average knowledge surged from 35% to 73%. Furthermore, variables including age, gender, and geographical region exhibited highly significant statistical associations with post-test scores (p < 0.001). The primary source of information regarding gender concepts also significantly influenced learning outcomes (p = 0.007). Conclusion: The implementation of a structured gender equality health education program proved highly efficacious in augmenting adolescent awareness. Such interventions play an instrumental role in dismantling gender stereotypes and fostering positive, equitable attitudes among the youth.