Embargo Period
12-12-2023
Degree Name
MA in Humanitarian Assistance and Crisis Management
First Advisor
Dr. Muntaha Gharaibeh
Abstract
This study delves into the hygiene behavior change among Syrian adolescent students in the context of COVID-19, examining the perspectives of parents and teachers. The qualitative analysis revealed three main themes: Hygiene Behavior Development, Water Shortages and Coping Strategies, COVID-19 Impact, and Displacement Experience and Vulnerability Impact. Parents actively engage in teaching hygiene habits from a young age, with mothers serving as crucial role models. NGO-led initiatives and school-based educational sessions contribute positively to hygiene behavior development, emphasizing the importance of sustained efforts. Water shortages pose a significant challenge, impacting hand washing practices, particularly in areas with intermittent water delivery. Coping strategies, including borrowing water from neighbors, underscore the resourcefulness of parents in mitigating these challenges. The study aligns with existing literature on the importance of early childhood interventions, parental influence on hygiene habits, and the role of NGOs in disseminating hygiene knowledge. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily heightened hygiene practices, driven by increased awareness and anxiety. However, the data suggests a decline in habits post-pandemic, emphasizing the need for continuous awareness initiatives. The study correlates with literature on the transient nature of behavior changes during crises and the importance of sustained health education efforts.
Displacement experiences and vulnerability impact hygiene behaviors, with overcrowded living conditions and economic struggles hindering optimal practices. While displacement itself may have a limited impact on hygiene habits, poverty emerges as a significant determinant. The study
aligns with research emphasizing the socio-economic factors influencing health practices in displaced populations.
This study underscores the interconnected factors shaping hygiene behavior among Syrian adolescent students. It advocates for context-specific interventions, sustained awareness efforts, and the importance of addressing socio-economic challenges to promote lasting positive hygiene practices in vulnerable populations.
Disciplines
Arts and Humanities | Social and Behavioral Sciences | Social Work
Recommended Citation
Alkhateeb, Ghassan, "Hygiene behavior changes of Syrian early adolescent students in Jordan in the context of COVID-19 considering parents and teacher’s perception" (2023). Capstone Collection. 3302.
https://digitalcollections.sit.edu/capstones/3302