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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Jolie N. Haun, MS, EdS, Beth Johnson, MPH, CHES, Barbara Rienzo, PhD, and Jill Varnes, EdD. Health Education and Behavior, University of Florida, 4100 SW 20th Avenue G-25, Gainesville, GA 32607, 904-377-6796, joliehaun@bellsouth.net

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the spiritual health of an undergraduate population in a large southeastern university. Data assessed spiritual beliefs and health practices in terms of group differences on the variables of gender, ethnicity, and religious affiliation. Methods: 485 undergraduate students completed a self-administered survey. The survey consisted of 157 items, including wellness assessment; spirituality and beliefs scale; and demographic items. Variables on the spirituality and beliefs scale included, moral values, prayer/meditation, presence of a higher power, reading of faith-based literature, life satisfaction, meaning, purpose, altruism, appreciation of nature, and participation in spiritual/faith-based activities. The reliability calculated resulted in a Cronbach's alpha of .95. Results: Data analysis revealed no significant differences by gender, ethnicity, and religious affiliation. Conclusions: The ultimate goal of university health promotion programs is to promote the holistic health and well-being of students according to their individual and/or group needs. Although the university sample provided a diverse population demographic, differences in gender, ethnicity, and religious affiliation in reporting spiritual beliefs and health practices were not significant. Therefore, in spite of the importance of recognizing differences among the university population, health promotion practitioners and student affairs personnel can capitalize on the common expression of spirituality when attempting to promote this dimension of health among the university community.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

(
• Summarize pertinent current research in the spiritual health of college population; (
• Discuss the methodology and instrumentation of the spiritual health survey study; (
• Discuss outcomes of the survey study; and (
• Identify implications for future research and health promotion practice in university communities.

Keywords: College Students, Community Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered