Abstract

P. Hed. (2011) What is health for men? Bachelor thesis. Gävle: University of Gävle, Faculty of health and occupational studies; 2011. The purpose of this study was to find out how men did perceive health, what men thought was healthpromoting, what men saw as potential barriers to achieve health and if there were any differences between different age groups. A qualitative study was conducted by three focus groups with six participants in each group. The people in the focus groups were men of different age and the first group was men aged 20-29, the second group was men aged 30-39 and the third group was men aged 40-50. Participants were selected through a convenience sample. The focus groups were conducted by the study leader. The information gathered in the focus groups were analysed from a phenomenographic perspective.

In the results that emerged, it appeared that health for the participants was not being sick and be at physical health in general. Health was also to be physically active, have a good social support and to eat right. Men in the focus groups felt that physical activity, nutrition and social support were the key factors in maintaining good health. If the participants health was good was depending on a number of factors, each of which helped to contribute to increased health benefits. As a threat to good health, the men saw in particular, stress, alcohol and tobacco. Opinions differed slightly between the groups and especially the third group (40-50) had a different view compared with the other groups about how physical activity was a key determinant to their sence of health.

Key words: Men, health, healthpromotion.