title: Primary grade teachers' knowledge and perceptions of head lice.
abstract: This study examined primary grade teachers' knowledge of head lice, perceived self-efficacy in dealing with head lice, and preferred resources of additional information on head lice. Survey data from a three-wave mailing (M = 292; 60%) found that teachers needed more knowledge regarding head lice and were significantly more knowledgeable as teaching experience increased. A plurality (46%) had high efficacy expectations scores regarding their ability to control the spread of head lice. Most (71%) primary teachers reported they received most of their head lice information from school nurses. Most (63%) said they would like more information on how to prevent head lice infestation, and they wanted the information in the form of videotapes (68%) and brochures (51%). Only 23% provided yearly instruction regarding head lice.
authors.affiliation: Health Education, Dept. of Public Health and Rehabilitative Services, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH 43606, USA.
authors.forename: G M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Kirchofer
authors.forename: J H
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Price
authors.forename: S K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Telljohann
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000818:Animals; D003625:Data Collection; D005178:Faculty / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education / Q000379:methods / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D010373:Lice Infestations / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010374:Pediculus; D012574:Schools / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014481:United States