Association of multiple behavioral risk factors with adolescents' willingness to engage in eHealth promotion.

Kenneth P. Tercyak, Anisha A. Abraham, Amanda L. Graham, Lara D. Wilson, Leslie R. Walker

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

35 Scopus citations

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study examines adolescents' willingness to use the internet and other forms of technology for health promotion purposes (i.e., "eHealth promotion" willingness) and determines if a relationship exists between adolescents' behavioral risks and their eHealth promotion willingness. METHODS: A total of 332 adolescents provided data at a routine medical check-up, including assessments of technology access, eHealth promotion willingness, and multiple behavioral risk factors for child- and adult-onset disease (body mass index, physical activity, smoking, sun protection, depression). RESULTS: The level of access to technology among the sample was high, with moderate willingness to engage in eHealth promotion. After adjusting for adolescents' access to technology, the presence of multiple behavioral risk factors was positively associated with willingness to use technology for health promotion purposes (beta =.12, p =.03). CONCLUSIONS: Adolescents with both single and multiple behavioral risk factors are in need of health promotion to prevent the onset of disease later in life. eHealth appears to be an acceptable and promising intervention approach with this population.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)457-469
Number of pages13
JournalJournal of pediatric psychology
Volume34
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2009

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health
  • Developmental and Educational Psychology

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