The method of delivery of nutrition and physical activity information may play a role in eliciting behavior changes in adolescents

Abstract

Objectives: Motivating adolescents to adopt proper nutrition and physical activity behaviors is important in this nation's fight to prevent obesity and chronic diseases. This study was conducted to determine which health education delivery method would elicit a greater behavior change.

Method: The intervention was conducted in three schools (control, computer-based, and traditional education).

Results: Students who received the computer-based intervention showed increased knowledge (p<0.001), physical activity (p=0.001), self-efficacy (p<0.001), and social support (p<0.001), and decreased meals skipped (p<0.001).

Conclusion: The computer-based group showed more positive behavior changes. However, future programs may be enhanced by including group discussion and individual feedback.