Assessment of self-efficacy, health literacy, and healthy lifestyle among school teachers in Mashhad
Journal of Behdasht dar Arseh (i.e., Health in the Field),
Vol. 13 No. 4 (1404),
5 September 2026
,
Page 64-75
https://doi.org/10.22037/jhf.v13i4.51029
Abstract
Background and Aims: Self-efficacy and a healthy lifestyle are key factors influencing health promotion in educational settings. The present study aimed to examine the association between self-efficacy, health literacy, and a health-promoting lifestyle among school teachers in Mashhad, Iran.
Materials and Methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2024 on 230 teachers selected from four education districts of Mashhad using simple random sampling. Data collection instruments included the Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile, the Sherer General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (S-TOFHLA). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16 with descriptive statistics, correlation analyses, t-tests, analysis of variance, and the general linear model. The study was carried out in full compliance with ethical principles and considerations at all stages.
Results: The mean self-efficacy score of the teachers was 65.91 ± 7.69, indicating a relatively desirable level. The mean scores for reading comprehension (theoretical) and numeracy (functional/practical) health literacy were 30.98 and 43.44, respectively. Health-promoting lifestyle had a mean score of 137.68 ± 20.14, placing it at a moderate level, with the lowest scores observed in the dimensions of stress management and physical activity. General linear model analysis revealed that self-efficacy was significantly and positively associated with a health-promoting lifestyle (R2=0.07, P<0.001), whereas its association with health literacy was not statistically significant.
Conclusion: The findings highlight the significant role of self-efficacy in improving health-promoting behaviors among teachers. It is recommended that educational interventions focused on enhancing self-efficacy be designed and implemented to foster healthy lifestyles among educators.
- Self-efficacy
- Health literacy
- Health-promoting lifestyle
- Teachers
How to Cite
References
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