Sundar TKB, Sargenius H, Kvarme LG, Sparboe-Nilsen B. Norwegian pre-service teacher students' and public health nursing students' views on health - a qualitative study of students' perceptions.
Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2024;
19:2322705. [PMID:
38431882 PMCID:
PMC10911246 DOI:
10.1080/17482631.2024.2322705]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE
In 2020, the Norwegian school curriculum was revised, introducing a new cross-curricular subject, Public Health, and Life Skills. The curriculum emphasizes collaboration between teachers and the school health service. Subsequently, a research project, Literacies for Health and Life Skills, was initiated at Oslo Metropolitan University. The aim was to develop a new approach to the subject. A part of the research was to explore perceptions about good and poor health among teacher students and public health nursing students.
METHODS
This study has a qualitative design using auto-photography, group discussions and photo-elicitation interviews as methods to explore the students' views on health.
RESULTS
A analysis revealed three themes about good health in both student groups: Relaxation and tranquillity, belonging and relations, and enjoyment as important to health. Three themes about poor health emerged in both student groups: The ideal body and self-perception, you are as healthy as you feel, and the best in life is also the worst. The students' statements were characterized by underlying assumptions about health in society, with a focus on "healthism". No major differences between the student groups were found.
CONCLUSION
This study serves as a step towards increased understanding of health perceptions among future professionals working with children and adolescents.
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