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KMID : 0858820080250030059
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Journal of Korean Society for Health Education and Promotion
2008 Volume.25 No. 3 p.59 ~ p.76
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The Stages of Change Distribution for Health Behaviors among Low Income Children in Underserved Area
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Kim Hye-Kyeong
Hyun Sung-Min
Kwon Eun-Joo
Kim Hee-Chul
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Abstract
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Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify the stages of change distributions for nine major health behaviors among poor children in underserved area, and to provide basic information for developing specific objectives and strategies for health education program.
Methods: The health behavior data were obtained with a self-administered questionnaire and analysed for 3,081 poor children in 106 local children’s centers nationwide. Stages of change classification were based on self-reported responses to five statements. The health behaviors included were balanced diet, safety behavior (helmet and protective device use while riding), regular exercise, smoking, alcohol use, drug use, sleep pattern, weight management and stress management.
Results: Poor children were more likely in precontemplation and less frequently in action and maintenance stages for a safety behavior. 33.1% of respondents were precontemplators, 29.9% contemplators, and 6.5% in preparation stage. Only 4.3% and 9.6% were in action and maintenance stages, respectively. Gender differences were apparent. Boys were more likely to be precontemplators for nine health behaviors. Children from the lowest socioeconomic status and disrupted family were more likely to be in precontemplation for weight management and exercise behaviors. Children living with both parents were more likely to be in the action and maintenance stages for nine health behaviors. Stages of change for balanced diet and smoking were significantly related with those for other eight health behaviors. And the stage of exercise adoption was found to be significantly related with those for other seven health behaviors.
Conclusion: Safety education must receive high priority in health education program for low income children. Balanced diet smoking cessation and regular exercise could be a possible gateway behavior toward healthier lifestyle practices.
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KEYWORD
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low income children, stage of change, health behavior, gateway behavior
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