Preventive Behaviors of Female Elementary Students in regard to Pediculosis Infestation based on Health Belief Model (HBM)

Pediculosis is considered as one of the most common parasitic infections among the students worldwide. Head lice infestation is observed in all parts of the world including Iran, especially in areas with high population density associated with poverty and poor personal hygiene. This study aimed to investigate the preventive behaviors in regard to pediculosis infestation based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) in students. This cross-sectional study was performed on 179 female 5th grade elementary school students in Gonabad, selected by cluster sampling. Data collection was done through a researcher-made questionnaire, which its validity and reliability had been confirmed. Data were analyzed by using descriptive and analytic tests including multiple linear regression. Mean age of students was 11.24 ± 0.6 years. Mean score of perceived barriers was 15.80 ± 3.30 and mean self-efficacy score was 16.63 ± 2.76 that were higher compared to other items. Preventive behavior showed significant correlation with perceived barriers and self-efficacy. Moreover, hair combing and perceived barriers were determined as final behavior predicting variables. It seems that providing necessary trainings with an emphasis on perceived barriers and self-efficacy improves students’ performance in regard to preventing pediculosis infestation.