Adolescents' Knowledge and Practice of Clean and Healthy Living (PHBS) During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The high risk of COVID-19 transmission in higher education institutions, particularly those located in Islamic boarding schools, is closely related to the low implementation of health protocols. Promoting Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) is one of the key strategies to reduce the spread of COVID-19. This study aimed to determine the relationship between knowledge and behavior in practicing PHBS among adolescents. This research employed an observational design with a cross-sectional approach. The population consisted of 60 students, with a simple random sampling technique yielding 52 respondents. The independent variable was knowledge of PHBS, while the dependent variable was PHBS behavior during the pandemic. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed with the Spearman rank correlation test at a significance level of α = 0.05. The findings showed that most respondents (69%) had a moderate level of knowledge about PHBS, and the majority (71%) demonstrated sufficient PHBS behavior. Statistical analysis revealed a significant relationship between knowledge and behavior (p = 0.004 < 0.05). There is a significant relationship between knowledge and behavior in PHBS among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Strengthening health education programs is essential to improve awareness and foster sustainable PHBS practices in pesantren environments.