Date of Conferral

2020

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Hedy R. Dexter

Abstract

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) once detected is easily treated; however, it has become a major health problem associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates, creating an economic burden worldwide. While approximately 24 million Americans over the age of 20 suffer from CKD, there is a lack of awareness among the general population. Using a pre/post assessment, this quantitative study measured the impact of a 75-minute workshop on 126 community college students' knowledge of kidney disease, perception of its severity, and perceived susceptibility. The theoretical framework for the study was the health belief model, which suggests that individuals will make positive lifestyle changes if informed about the nature and impact of a specific disease. A t-test was conducted for Research Question 1 and Research Question 2, and multiple regression was performed for Research Question 3. The results of the study indicated that the knowledge workshop increased participants' level of knowledge and their perception of susceptibility to kidney disease. However, their perception of CKD's severity decreased, suggesting that factors such as environment, racial/ethnic background, and/or attitudes may need to be addressed in future studies. It is recommended that health awareness workshops, especially for renal failure, be made available to all community college students. By educating individuals about CKD and creating awareness of its signs and symptoms, individuals can make better lifestyle choices that benefit not just themselves but create positive social change for the greater society.

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