High school health education: focus on the development of self-controlling

Background The present study aimed to demonstrate the pedagogical value of developing self-assessment skills among high school students. In addition, the research investigated whether posture training could positively influence both self-assessment and health-related behaviors. The underlying assumption was that beyond merely providing theoretical knowledge and instructions regarding a healthy lifestyle, it is essential to support students in internalizing and adopting these behaviors as part of their daily routines. In fostering health-conscious behavior, self-regulation and self-control were considered particularly important alongside formal instruction. Methods A total of 169 high school students (69 boys and 100 girls) from three secondary schools in Budapest, Hungary, participated in the study (Mage = 16.02 ± 0.64). Participants were assigned to either a Habitual Posture Group (HPG) or a Control Group (CG), the intervention program lasted for 7 weeks. Data collection involved the use of questionnaires (including the Body Assessment Questionnaire – BAQ), locomotor function tests, and self-report surveys, administered both before and after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25. Results Following the intervention, both groups reported increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, and water, as well as decreased alcohol intake. The HPG showed greater improvement in strength exercises and stress management strategies. While both groups demonstrated significant gains in back muscle strength, only the HPG showed a significant increase in abdominal muscle strength in the posttest. Interestingly, the CG showed more marked improvements on the BAQ, likely due to their lower initial scores. Conclusion The findings support the effectiveness of self-assessment as a pedagogical method in promoting health behaviour among adolescents. In addition to factors such as age, socioeconomic background, and school environment, students' learning attitudes should be taken into account in future psychological and educational research.