Behavioural Attitude and Academic Performance of Students in Post-Basic Nursing Schools in FCT, Abuja

Abstract

In Nigeria, limited studies have shown that the academic performance of post-basic nursing students is influenced by diverse factors, including their behavioral attitudes. Despite the crucial role these students play in the healthcare system, their academic performance is often hampered by negative behavioral attitudes stemming from high-stress levels and inadequate support systems. This study aimed to assess behavioral attitudes and academic performance of post-basic nursing schools in FCT-Abuja. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive research design. The study population for the survey included post basic students in various post basic schools in FCT-Abuja. The total number of the target population was 211 from all schools and the sample size was determined using Taro Yamane’s formula (n = 138). A stratified random sampling technique was used to select the study sample from each school. A self-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data from the respondents after obtaining ethical clearance from the ethical committee of the institution. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26 into descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution and percentage count. Majority of the respondents 59(42.7) were between 18 and 24 years old, 65.9% of the respondents, majority 91(64.1%) were females, most of the respondents practiced Christianity 82(59.4%), while 86(62.3%) are living outside Abuja metropolis. The study findings showed that the prevalent behavioral attitudes among post-basic nursing students are specifically a strong motivation to excel, confidence in academic abilities, active participation in learning, and a focus on academic goals, with an overall mean score of 2.63. There is a high level of impact of behavioural attitudes on academic performance, with an overall mean score of 2.54. The major challenges faced by post-basic nursing students include workload, stress, balancing responsibilities, limited resources, and external pressures, with an overall mean score of 2.82. The findings revealed that students exhibit positive behavioural attitudes including strong motivation, confidence, and commitment to their education, but face challenges such as workload, stress, limited resources, and external pressures which impact their academic performance. The study will help nursing educators and administrators create a supportive learning environment, provide resources, and foster positive behavioral attitudes to enhance academic success and well-being among post basic nursing students.