FACTORS ASSOSIATED WITH HANDWASHING BEHAVIOR WITH SOAP AMONG STUDENTS AT ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS 167 IN PEKANBARU

Abstract

Handwashing with soap is a key strategy for preventing infectious diseases in school settings. However, many elementary school students have yet to fully adopt this practice. This study aims to analyze the factors associated with handwashing with soap among students at State Elementary School 167 in Pekanbaru in 2025. This is a quantitative analytical study with a cross-sectional design. The study population consisted of 117 third-grade students, with a sample of 90 respondents selected using the Slovin formula. The research instrument was a closed-ended questionnaire covering the variables of knowledge, facilities and infrastructure, the school’s role, and handwashing with soap behavior. Data analysis was performed using bivariate analysis with the Chi-Square test at a significance level of 0.05. The results showed that the majority of students had high knowledge (61.1%), adequate school facilities and infrastructure (66.7%), and that the school’s supportive and non-supportive roles were equally represented (50.0%). However, the results of the statistical tests showed no significant associated between knowledge (p=0.238), facilities and infrastructure (p=0.143), and the school’s role (p=0.818) with students’ handwashing behavior with soap. Thus, it can be concluded that students’ handwashing behavior with soap is not fully influenced by these factors. A comprehensive approach through habit formation, teacher supervision, and strengthening the role of school policies to ensure that handwashing with soap is consistently practiced in elementary school settings.