Peer Education Based on Integrated Change Model on Nursing Students' STI-Related Behaviors

The Effect of Peer Education Prepared Based on the Integrated Change Model on Nursing Students' Behaviors, Attitudes, and Knowledge Regarding Sexually Transmitted Infections: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of two peer education models on nursing students' behaviors, attitudes, and knowledge regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

First-year nursing students will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group will receive a peer education program developed based on the Integrated Change Model (ICM), while the control group will receive standard peer education. Both programs will be delivered by a fourth-year nursing student (peer educator) in four weekly sessions of 30 minutes each.

The ICM integrates key principles from major behavior change theories including the Theory of Planned Behavior, Social Cognitive Theory, the Transtheoretical Model, and the Health Belief Model. By combining peer education with this theoretical framework, the study seeks to promote lasting positive changes in STI-related protective behaviors among nursing students.

Data will be collected using validated scales measuring STI-related behaviors, attitudes, and knowledge before and after the intervention. The study will contribute to the development of more effective STI prevention programs in university settings.

Inclusion Criteria:

• First-year nursing student enrolled at Sakarya University Faculty of Health Sciences in the 2025-2026 academic year
• No prior formal education on sexually transmitted infections within the undergraduate curriculum
• Voluntary written informed consent to participate

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participation in another sexual health education program during the study period
• Absence from more than one of the four education sessions