Abstract

GASPAR, T.; RIBEIRO, J.L.Pais; MATOS, M.G.  and  LEAL, I.. Quality of life promotion with children and adolescents. Psic., Saúde & Doenças [online]. 2008, vol.9, n.1, pp.55-71. ISSN 1645-0086.

The present study aims to identify and to characterize the strategies used in order to promote Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) with children and adolescents, according to children and adolescents’ perspectives, Parents’ perspectives and professionals’ perspectives were also analysed and discussed. A qualitative method was used in order to collect data. A “focus group” or discussion groups based in specific issue was used to collect information and to contextualize, to highlight and to interpret the knowledge obtained through literature. Sixteen focus groups were carried out: six groups with children and adolescents; four groups with parents and six groups with education professionals. Participants speeches were analysed by using a content analyse procedure. The results highlighted from one side the need of alternative activities to spend leisure time inside and outside school. On another hand results suggested the need for parents’ active involvement and the need for a more skilled/ competent participation from education Professional. These features are critical in order to promote HRQoL in children and adolescents. Those proposals indicate the need of a global intervention, framed by an ecological approach involving all actors and several contexts.

Keywords : Quality of life; Childhood; Adolescence; Health promotion; Focus group.

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