What factors are related to self-perceived health? The relationship between Sense of Coherence, behaviors and health on Peruvian emerging adults

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between Sense of Coherence (SOC), health behaviors and self-perceived physical and mental health in men and women. 448 undergraduate students participated in this study. The mean age was 21.3 years old (SD = 1.95). SOC, leisure time and sleep predicted better mental health in men. Comprehensibility, leisure time, sleep and physical activity predicted physical health in men. Only manageability and meaningfulness predicted mental health in women. In this group, Manageability, leisure time, physical activity and diet predicted physical health. These results can be used to help design strategies to encourage the adoption of healthy behaviors and healthier coping strategies in late adolescents and emerging adults.