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A recent study conducted at the Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences and Gerontology Research Center has shed light on the intricate relationship between various health behaviors. The research, led by doctoral researcher Johanna Ahola, underscores the interconnectedness of habits such as physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption among individuals.
Traditionally, health behaviors have been examined in isolation in research studies. However, this study takes a holistic approach, recognizing that individuals often engage in multiple health behaviors simultaneously. The findings reveal a notable correlation between low physical activity levels and higher rates of alcohol consumption and smoking.
Ahola explains, “Smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity are often investigated separately in studies, but our study approach takes into account that each of us engages in multiple health behaviors simultaneously.”
The longitudinal study tracked individuals at the ages of 42, 50, and 61 over a span of 19 years. It observed that while health behavior patterns tend to remain relatively stable throughout middle adulthood, positive changes were evident during the follow-up period. Smoking rates notably decreased, possibly influenced by both age and societal circumstances.
“The results are in line with previous studies. It was particularly encouraging to observe favorable behavior changes,” Ahola notes. “With the increased incidence of diseases in middle adulthood compared to earlier ages, general health precaution and health-related goals may become more important, leading to changes in behavior.”
Moreover, sociodemographic factors play a role in shaping health behavior patterns. Women, married individuals, degree holders, and white-collar workers were more likely to engage in healthier behaviors. Personality traits also emerged as significant predictors, with higher levels of conscientiousness, openness, and agreeableness associated with healthier habits.
“Examining personality traits in health behavior patterns brought a new perspective compared to prior research,” Ahola remarks. “It was surprising to find that low extraversion was associated with healthier behaviors, contrary to previous observations.”
The research draws on the extensive Jyväskylä Longitudinal Study of Personality and Social Development, spanning over 50 years. Professor Lea Pulkkinen led the research from 1968 to 2012, followed by Research Director
