Peer educator training program for enhancing knowledge on issues in the growth and development of adolescents and risk behavior problems in Indonesian context

Abstract

Abstract Objective This article aimed to evaluate the effects of an educational intervention programme on improving peer educator (PE) knowledge in issues around growth and development and its risk behavior problems of adolescents in Indonesia. Methods The study was conducted in 31 of PEs to evaluate their knowledge in adolescents. The PEs received health education and were assessed by individual work during the structured three-week programme. Data were collected before and after the training programme as pre- and post-tests. Results The PE demonstrated significant improvements in their knowledge after attending the three-week structured training programme. The post-test scores had significant effects on the dimensions of PE knowledge scores. The PE become knowledgeable to maintain and monitor adolescents health issues around growth and development and its risk behavior problems of adolescents. Conclusions The PE become knowledgeable to respond to the adolescent problems and readiness to become PE during puberty.