A Study of Predictive Factors Affecting Health: Promoting Behaviors of North Korean Adolescent Refugees

J Prev Med Public Health. 2015 Sep;48(5):231-8. doi: 10.3961/jpmph.14.045. Epub 2015 Sep 6.

Abstract

Objectives: The present study aimed to analyze the factors that could affect the health-promoting behaviors of North Korean adolescent refugees residing in South Korea.

Methods: Questions about their sociodemographic variables, subjective health status, healthy living habits, and health-promoting behaviors were asked.

Results: Statistically significant differences were found in religion (t=2.30, p<0.05), having family members in South Korea (t=2.02, p<0.05), and subjective health status (t=4.96, p<0.01). Scores on health-responsible behaviors were higher with higher age (t=2.90, p<0.01) and for subjects without family or friends (t=2.43, p<0.05). Higher physical-activity behaviors were observed in males (t=3.32, p<0.01), in those with better subjective health status (t=3.46, p<0.05) and lower body mas index (t=3.48, p<0.05), and in smokers (t=3.17, p<0.01). Nutritional behaviors were higher in those who followed a religion (t=2.17, p<0.05). Spiritual growth behaviors were higher in those who followed a religion (t=4.21, p<0.001), had no family in South Korea (t=2.04, p<0.05), and had higher subjective health status (t=5.74, p<0.01). Scores on interpersonal relationships and stress-management behaviors were higher for those with higher subjective health status. A multiple regression analysis showed greater effects on health-promoting behaviors when subjective health status was better. Older people and non-smokers exhibited more health-responsible behaviors, while more physical-activity behaviors and spiritual growth activities were observed when subjective health status was better. Interpersonal relationship behaviors had positive effects on those with good subjective heath status and on non-smokers.

Conclusions: Based on the results of the current study, an alternative was suggested for promoting health in North Korean adolescent refugees.

Keywords: Adolescent; Democratic People’s Republic of Korea; Health promotion; Refugees.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology
  • Body Mass Index
  • Democratic People's Republic of Korea
  • Female
  • Health Behavior
  • Health Promotion*
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Refugees / psychology*
  • Republic of Korea
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult