Ezihe Loretta Ahanonu
1*, Karien Jooste
21 Child and Family Studies, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
2 School of Nursing, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
Abstract
Introduction: This study
sought to explore and describe the interpretation which adolescents ascribe to
the term wellness at a selected high school in the Western Cape Province of
South Africa.
Methods: A
qualitative research design was utilized. Nine focus-group discussions were
conducted among 58 adolescents. Sample was selected purposefully and collected
data was analyzed using open coding.
Results: Findings
reflected adolescents’ interpretations of the term wellness in the realm of
holistic well-being transcending the nonexistence of illness or sickness in the
body. The interpretations given include: healthy living which embrace eating
enough nutritious foods, exercising regularly and being actively involved in
physical activities; practicing self-care habits such as personal hygiene and
grooming; well-being of the mind (psychological, emotional); having a balanced
personality and interpersonal processes; being focused and goal directed and
spiritual well-being.
Conclusion: It is imperative to consider adolescents’
understandings of wellness when planning, designing, implementing and evaluating
adolescent wellness programs.