Sense of coherence is associated with the presence of healthy lifestyles in the migrant population.

BACKGROUND

Despite the evidence of the sense of coherence (SOC) as a key factor in stress management and health promotion, there is little information about its connection with healthy lifestyles in migrant population.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relationship between the variables SOC and Healthy Lifestyles in a south-south migrant population.

STUDY DESIGN

Non-experimental, cross-sectional and correlational study.

METHOD

A total of 1,844 migrants living in Chile participated, selected through a non-probabilistic intentional sampling. The SOC and lifestyle were assessed by applying the FANTASTICO and SOC-13 instruments.

RESULTS

SOC was positively correlated with lifestyle in the migrant population. Sex differences in SOC were identified, suggesting that men have greater access to resources. Age was also positively correlated with SOC and healthy lifestyle. Overall, the importance of considering the particularities of each group in health promotion in migration contexts is emphasized.

CONCLUSIONS

This research supports the hypothesis that a strong SOC is positively related to a healthy lifestyle in migrants. The differences found could be explained by sociocultural resources and norms, suggesting the importance of comprehensively addressing aspects related to the mental and physical health of the migrant population, especially in complex migratory contexts.