Social and Health Determinants of Adolescent's Wellbeing in Jordan: Implications for Policy and Practice

Abstract Purpose This study examined the extent to which health related aspect, health outcome, behaviour outcomes and social connectedness may predict adolescents' wellbeing at the schools of Jordan. Methods Using a two-stage cluster sampling technique 1166 adolescents completed the Health Behaviour of School Children survey. Results Stepwise Regression Analysis showed that the adolescents' wellbeing was predicted by academic achievements, bullying behaviour, eating habits, psycho-somatization, parent support and ease of communication with parents. These predictors explained 40% of the variance in the emotional wellbeing scores. Conclusion and Practice Implications This study provides baseline information to build the evidence base for surveillance of health behaviors among adolescents in Jordan. Students' experiences of secondary school and their relationships at school continue to predict their emotional wellbeing.