Analysis of Influencing Factors on Health Promoting Behavior in Middle-Aged Men

Lee, Young Whee

Abstract

This descriptive correlational study was undertaken to examine the degree of health promoting behavior, and to analyze the factors affecting those health promoting behaviors of middle-aged men. The subjects for this study were 215 men aged by 35-55 from three business enterprises located in Seoul and Inchon. Data collection was conducted through the use of 5 questionnaires and analysis of the data was done by used of descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient and Stepwise Multiple Regression Analysis. The results of this study were as follows: 1. The average score of health promoting behavior was 2.58. And the average scores of the dimensions of health promoting behavior, i.e., self-actualization, interpersonal support, stress management, health responsibility, and exercise and nutrition were 2.92, 2.82, 2.48, 2.38 and 2.31 respectively. 2. There were significant differences in the health promoting behavior according to religion(F=3.58, p=0.0040), educational level (F=3.85, p=0.0104), household income (F=3.81, p=0.0051), smoking(F=3.90, p= 0.0097), alcohol(F=3.57, p=0.0149), check body weight(t=3.32, p=0.0069), and exercise(F= 14.56, p=0.0001). 3. A positive correlation was found between health promoting behavior and all the independent variables of perceived health status(r=0.319, p=0.0001), self-efficacy(r= 0.380, p=0.0001), self-esteem(r=0.487, p= 0.0001) and social support(r=0.474, p= 0.0001). 4. Stepwise Multiple Regression Analysis revealed that the most powerful predictor was self-esteem. Self-esteem, exercise, social support, smoking and alcohol accounted for 44% of the variance in health promoting behavior in middle-aged men. Therefore health professionals firtst need to develop nursing interventions will enhance self-esteem. Above these findings partially support the relationships posited in Pender's health promotion model that individual perceptions influence health promoting behavior.