Factors Influencing the Health Practices of Female Young Adults.

Background/Purpose: This study developed and tested theory to gain a better understanding of the factors that influence positive health practices (PHP) among female young adults. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the factors that may influence the health behaviors among female young adults. More specifically, this study examined the relationships between health literacy, health knowledge and beliefs, self-esteem, self-efficacy, social support and health behaviors (such as nutrition and physical activity, breast and cervical health) in female young adults, between the ages of 18-24 years old. Theoretical Framework: This study empirically test theoretical relationships postulated in the literature between the dependent variable, health behaviors, and each of the independent variables of (a) health literacy, (b) health knowledge and beliefs, (c) self-esteem, and (d) self-efficacy and (e) social support. Methods: A cross-sectional correlational study design was used. A convenience sample of 102 female young adults in an urban setting completed questionnaires assessing their health literacy, health knowledge and beliefs, self-esteem, self-efficacy, perceived social support, their performance of health practices, and one demographic questionnaire. Data collection is complete and data is currently being entered into SPSS Statistical Software to be analyzed. Results: Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Pearson correlations and multiple regression analysis will be used to test the research hypotheses. Conclusions/Implications: It is anticipated that the study findings will contribute to the body of knowledge regarding the factors that influence health practices among female young adults to promote the adoption and maintenance of healthy behaviors among this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]