A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Planned Teaching Program on Knowledge Regarding Effects of Junk Foods on Health among Adolescents in Selected High Schools of Gwalior

Abstract

"Junk food" typically encompasses calorie rich, nutritionally deficient foods. Adolescents often find themselves immersed in a world dominated by fast food and vending machines, often oblivious to the potential harm they pose to their well being. Adolescents face elevated nutritional risks, both physiologically and psychologically, yet many lack awareness of the health risks associated with consuming junk foods. Objective: This study aimed to enhance adolescents' understanding of the detrimental effects of junk foods on their health, subsequently reducing the prevalence of junk food consumption by fostering healthier eating habits. Methods: A pre experimental study employing a one group pre test and post test design was conducted to evaluate adolescents' knowledge regarding the health consequences of junk foods. The research was carried out in two selected schools in Gwalior, specifically Radiant Public School and Kashani Memorial School. The sample size of 80 participants was determined using stratified simple random sampling. A structured questionnaire was utilized to gauge the adolescents' knowledge. Results: In the post test, the overall mean knowledge score of 25.91 among participants exceeded the pre test mean score of 16.90, demonstrating an improvement of 9.01 points. Statistical analysis indicated a significant difference (p<0.05) between pre test and post test knowledge scores. The findings underscored the substantial effectiveness of the planned teaching program in enhancing adolescents' knowledge. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study emphasizes the critical role of improved knowledge regarding the health risks associated with junk foods in empowering adolescents to avoid such foods and adopt healthier dietary habits.