The Effect of Peer Education Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior on the Improvement of Behaviors Related to Oral Health in Primary School Students in Rural Areas of Torbat-e Jam

Introduction: Healthy mouth and teeth are one of the main criteria for measuring people’s health in the community. Health education is one of the best ways to ensure people’s health in the community. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of peer education on improving oral health behaviors based on behavior theory that was planned in primary school students in rural areas of Torbat-e Jam. Materials and Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, 98 fourth and fifth-grade primary school students in rural areas of Torbat-e-Jam were selected by multi-stage sampling in 1398 and randomly assigned to two control groups and assigned tests. The data collection tool was a valid and reliable questionnaire was completed by students in the previous three periods, immediately and three months after the educational intervention based on the theory of planning behavior. Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, and Wilcoxon tests were used for data analysis, and GEE (Generalized Estimating Equation) model was used for data modeling. All analyzes were performed at an error level of 0.05 using SPSS 20. Results: In the experimental group, the mean and standard deviation of the attitude score ranged from 21.59±3.59 to 28.93±1.36, the abstract norm from 12.55±1.60 to 13.93±1.51 Perceived behavioral control from 13.65±2.87 to 19.44±1.65, intentional behavior from 14.69±3.04 to 19.69±1.38 and toothbrush and flossing behavior 8.40±1.94 changed to 11.48±0.84 after the intervention. The mean scores of all structures in the experimental group increased significantly compared to the control group after the intervention, while these changes in the group control not observed (P<0.001) Discussion and Conclusion: Peer education based on the theory of planned behavior candevelop desirable behaviors and correct bad behavioral habits of oral health.