Citation

Jacobs AC, Viljoen CT, Van Der Walt JL. J. Child Adolesc. Ment. Health 2012; 24(1): 89-98.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, National Inquiry Services Centre, South Africa)

DOI

10.2989/17280583.2012.673493

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This article reports on an investigation into the connection between spirituality and the lifestyle choices of adolescents in the North West Province of South Africa.

METHOD: An examination of the theoretical connections between these two entities in the lives of adolescents was followed by a quantitative study in which a questionnaire consisting of an adapted version of the Youth Risk Behaviour Survey and the Spiritual Well-Being Scale was used.

RESULTS: The empirical investigation shows that a significant correlation exists between the two variables and it appears that spiritual well-being can have a positive influence on the lifestyle choices made by adolescents.

CONCLUSION: Further research must be carried out to assess the impact of spirituality on risk behaviours and lifestyle choices. © 2012 NISC Pty Ltd.

Language: en

Keywords

human; violence; suicide; child; female; male; South Africa; alcoholism; medical ethics; adolescent health; review; major clinical study; questionnaire; school child; sexual behavior; drug dependence; quantitative analysis; theoretical study; lifestyle modification; spiritual healing