Using the theory of planned behaviour to predict preventive intention on sexual behaviours among junior high school students in lower Northern region of Thailand

This study aimed to identify the determinants of preventive intention on sexual behaviours using the theory of planned behaviour among the junior high school students in lower northern region of Thailand. Across-sectional study with self-administered questionnaire was employed to collect survey data. Amultistage sampling technique was used to select informants. The strongest positive association with preventive intention on sexual behaviours was found for perceived self-efficacy towards preventing sexual intention. Perceived self-efficacy, perceived social belief, and perceived peer pressure/social influence had positive and significant (P< 0.001) effect on preventive intention on sexual behaviours, while perceived attitude had negative and significant (P< 0.001) effect on preventive intention on sexual behaviours. Students’ behavioural intention significantly predicted preventive intention on sexual behaviours among the junior high school students in lower northern region of Thailand. The school administrators could use the theory of planned behaviour to promote sexual education programme for junior high school students.