Health, nutrition and socio-economic predictors of school achievement among 13- and 14-year-old Kingston girls - abstract

ABSTRACT

Poor school achievement is a major problem which seriously affects the future of many students in Jamaica. As part of a study on the health and nutrition of 13- and -14-year-old girls their nutritional status and health-related behaviours were investigated to determine whether they contribute to the poor levels of achievement. The sample was selected from all 9 All-Age and New Secondary Schools in the city of Kingston with over 40 girls enrolled in grade 8. Four hundred and fifty-two girls were selected by random sampling from the 1061 eligible girls. Each girl was given an indepth interview by 1 of 5 trained female interviewers, using a structured questionnaire to collect health-rlated behaviours and social background. The girls' heights and weights and skinfolds were measured and blood taken for the assessment of iron status. School achievement was measured, using the Wide Range Achievement Test and expressed ingrade level ratings. Mean achievement levels was poor (5.1ñ2.1). The girls' weights and heights were appropriate for their age. However, 16 per cent of them were anaemic (Haemoglobin<11.5gm/dl). Variables which made unique contributions to the variance in school achievement were identified, using stepwise multiple regression analyses. Lack of school materials, reading stimulation at home and community participation; anaemia, involvement in fights, early sexual intercourse and chores before school were associated with poor school achievement. Interventions to addresss these problems need evaluation (AU)