ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PERCEPTION OF TEENAGE PREGNANCY AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN WORD OF FAITH GROUP OF SCHOOLS, UGBOR COMMUNITY, BENIN CITY, EDO STATE

Abstract

Background: Teenage pregnancy remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, with Edo State recording increasingly concerning rates. Knowledge, attitude, and perception (KAP) are key determinants of adolescents' reproductive health behaviours. Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and perception of teenage pregnancy among secondary school students in Word of Faith Group of Schools, Ugbor Community, Benin City, Edo State. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was employed. A total of 120 students were selected from Word of Faith Group of Schools using a purposive and proportionate sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed using frequency tables and percentages. Results: Findings revealed that 68.3% of the respondents had good knowledge of teenage pregnancy. The majority (74.2%) demonstrated negative attitudes towards teenage pregnancy. Regarding perception, 62.5% of the students identified peer pressure and lack of parental guidance as the primary factors influencing teenage pregnancy. Socio-demographic factors, including gender and class level, significantly influenced the respondents' knowledge and attitude. Conclusion: Secondary school students at Word of Faith Group of Schools possess moderate-to-good knowledge and largely negative attitudes towards teenage pregnancy. However, perception gaps persist, particularly regarding socioeconomic and structural determinants. School-based reproductive health education programs tailored to address these gaps are recommended. Keywords: Teenage pregnancy, knowledge, attitude, perception, secondary school students, Ugbor Community, Benin City, Edo State.

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Resource ID

urn:uuid:cfb5a401-e0a3-4bed-9cec-bbf8d447a1ca