THE IMPACT OF LIFESTYLE ON ADOLESCENT BEHAVIOUR: PRELIMINARY INSIGHTS INTO HEALTHY LIVING AND MENTAL HEALTH
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/arev7n8-069Keywords:
Healthy Lifestyle, Adolescent Behaviour, Mental Health, Psychopathology, Disease PreventionAbstract
This study investigated the associations between lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial functioning among adolescents in a public high school in northeastern Brazil. Using a cross-sectional, school-based design, data were collected in October 2024 from a sample of 61 students aged 15 to 19 years. Participants completed two validated instruments: the Individual Lifestyle Profile (Perfil do Estilo de Vida Individual – PEVI), which assesses health-related behaviours across five lifestyle domains, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), a widely used tool for screening psychosocial functioning. Findings revealed key vulnerabilities in health behaviours, including inadequate nutrition, low levels of physical activity, and poor stress management. Notable sex differences were identified: girls were more likely to report internalising symptoms and difficulties in interpersonal relationships, while boys reported higher levels of physical activity and overall psychosocial well-being. These disparities reflect persistent sociocultural barriers to female participation in physical activity, which may negatively affect self-esteem, emotional well-being, and social connectedness. Despite these challenges, prosocial behaviours remained relatively preserved, suggesting potential resilience factors that may be strengthened through targeted interventions. Overall, the results suggest that adolescent mental health is influenced by a range of modifiable lifestyle behaviours and social dynamics. These behavioural patterns, even in less urbanised contexts, appear to reflect broader cultural shifts and evolving epidemiological trends. The findings underscore the need for integrated, school-based interventions that are both gender-sensitive and contextually relevant. Promoting physical activity, enhancing peer relationships, and encouraging healthy lifestyle habits during adolescence may contribute to reducing psychosocial distress and support broader public health goals centred on well-being and disease prevention.
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