Structural Equation Model of Health Promotion Behaviors in Late School-aged Children: Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to investigate the factors affecting health promotion behaviors in late school-aged children by establishing a hypothetical model based on the planned behavior theory. METHODS: From July 19 to August 31, 2017, 460 questionnaires were distributed to fifth and sixth graders at three elementary schools in Korea, of which 318 were ultimately analyzed. RESULTS: All the fit indices were shown to be appropriate, indicating satisfactory fit. In the final model, six of the nine paths included in the hypothetical model were supported. Specifically, perceived behavioral control had the most influence on intention, followed by subjective norms, self-esteem, and health knowledge. Intentions were the most influential factor for health-promoting behaviors, followed by self-esteem and health knowledge. Subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and self-esteem explained 57.6% of intention to engage in health promotion behaviors and 61.7% of variation in health promotion behaviors was explained by health knowledge, self-esteem and intention. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study provide support for a model that can be used to facilitate the practice of health promotion activities in children in the later years of school age.