Relationship between Psychological Well-Being and Prevention Behaviors in Public Health: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in the Adult Population

Abstract

Psychological well-being is a relevant resource for understanding the adoption of preventive behaviors in public health, especially in the adult population exposed to multiple work, family, and health demands. The aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between psychological well-being and prevention behaviors in public health in adults. A quantitative, observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study was designed with a realistic simulated sample of 624 adults between 18 and 65 years of age. Psychological well-being was assessed using a scale based on Ryff's multidimensional model and preventive behaviors were assessed using a composite index of biomedical, hygienic-sanitary, informational and lifestyle prevention. Descriptive analyses, Pearson correlations, ANOVA by tertiles of well-being, and multiple linear regression adjusted for sociodemographic variables, chronic disease, risk perception, and health literacy were performed.

The results showed a moderate positive association between global psychological well-being and preventive behaviors (r = .46, p < .001). The dimensions with the greatest relationship were life purpose, mastery of the environment and self-acceptance. The ANOVA showed significant differences in preventive behaviors according to the level of psychological well-being, with higher scores in the high well-being group. In multiple regression, psychological well-being maintained a significant predictive effect on preventive behaviors (β = .31, p < .001), even after controlling for covariates. It is concluded that psychological well-being can function as a psychosocial resource associated with prevention in public health. Preventive interventions should integrate health literacy, realistic risk perception, and strengthening positive psychological resources.