In our research, we started with 5,415 records, but after filtering out duplicates and reviewing abstracts, we narrowed it down to 205 studies for full-text evaluation. Ultimately, we selected 40 studies that met our criteria. From these, we chose 25 for a deeper qualitative analysis based on the richness of their data.
Most of the sampled studies were from the U.S., Australia, and Finland. About six focused solely on children aged 8–14, while 15 involved adolescents aged 15–19. Some didn’t specify age groups. Additionally, many studies provided gender information, with a majority featuring female participants. Twelve studies included diverse groups of children and adolescents, covering aspects like ethnicity and socioeconomic status.
Our findings revolve around how children and adolescents understand and seek health information. We organized this into a model highlighting the personal and social factors affecting health literacy.
Finding 1: Active Information Seeking
Many adolescents actively look for health information, especially when they experience symptoms. They often want to confirm what they are feeling and learn how to address it. For instance, one adolescent mentioned checking when to see a doctor to determine if their issue was serious. They search online, consult friends and family, and turn to traditional media. They prefer quick, accessible, and relevant information, especially for sensitive topics.
Finding 2: Passive Information Receiving
Alongside active searching, young people often receive health information passively—from parents, teachers, and health professionals. They gain insights from personal experiences and those around them.
Finding 3: Processing Information
Children and adolescents often build on their existing knowledge when encountering new health information. The better they understand their health decisions, the more effectively they process information. However, they also face challenges like misinformation and varying opinions, which can lead to confusion. Many reported uncertainty about conflicting health advice online.
Finding 4: Taking Action
The ability to make informed health choices is influenced by their knowledge and experiences. Some adolescents feel their parents control their health decisions, while others gain more autonomy over time. Barriers like stigma, privacy, and lack of knowledge can prevent them from addressing mental health issues.
Finding 5: Psychological Factors
Young people’s attitudes towards health and their motivation significantly affect their behaviors. Future-oriented thinking and personal motivation can inspire healthier choices, whereas low motivation may lead to risky behaviors. Adolescents may also struggle with medical terminology, impacting their understanding.
Finding 6: Socio-Demographic Factors
Gender identity influences how adolescents interact with healthcare providers and perceive health responsibilities. Some feel embarrassed discussing health issues with an opposite-gender provider. Age also plays a role; older adolescents tend to seek information online, while younger ones often rely on family support.
Finding 7: Influence of Family, Teachers, and Peers
Family members are a primary source of health information for adolescents. They often consult them before looking elsewhere. Teachers also play a key role in disseminating health knowledge, though the trust gap exists. Peers contribute to discussions about health but are less frequently consulted during information searches.
Finding 8: Living Environment
A child’s surroundings can affect their health choices and literacy. Access to healthy foods and recreational activities can encourage healthier lifestyles. Schools play a crucial part in shaping these environments.
Finding 9: Socio-Cultural Environment
Religious beliefs can affect health literacy, with some adolescents avoiding topics that conflict with their morals. Stigma around mental health also prevents open discussions, complicating their understanding and support.
Finding 10: Educational System
School discussions significantly influence health awareness. Health classes help shape understanding, and programs like gardening initiatives create broader conversations within families about health.
Finding 11: Healthcare System
Access to healthcare and the relationship with providers are crucial for health literacy. Trust and continuity in care encourage young people to seek help and ask questions.
Finding 12: Internet and Media
Younger people increasingly rely on social media and the internet for health information. They prefer clear, engaging content and trust established organizations more than personal blogs or unfamiliar sources. Social media also provides anonymity, allowing them to connect with others facing similar health challenges.
In summary, health literacy among children and adolescents is influenced by various interconnected factors, including active information seeking, processing of health information, and the roles of family, peers, and the social media landscape. It’s imperative to address these elements to enhance their understanding and engagement with health-related issues.
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Health care,Health policy,Public health,Health literacy,Adolescent health,Child health,Conceptual model,Meta-ethnography,Health literacy model,Science,Humanities and Social Sciences,multidisciplinary
