The influence of race and gender on health promoting behavior determinants of southern "at-risk" adolescents.

This article discusses the influence of race and gender on health promoting behavior determinants of "at-risk" adolescents living in the Black Belt region of Alabama. Self perception is an essential component in the likelihood to engage in a health promoting behavior lifestyle. There are differences in perceptual determinants according to race and gender. Identification in areas of difference is crucial to the development of intervention programs that meet students where they are while empowering them to make informed lifestyle behavior choices. Adolescents perceive themselves to have high levels of self-esteem. The challenge is to identify ways to enhance their self-efficacy and levels of hope.