Life style--an emergent concept in the sociomedical sciences

Area of Science:

• Sociomedical Research
• Health Behavior Studies
• Sociology

Background:

• The concept of lifestyle has gained prominence in sociomedical research.
• However, the term remains poorly defined and inconsistently applied.
• Its usage has evolved significantly over recent decades.

Purpose of the Study:

• To trace the evolution of the lifestyle concept.
• To analyze its transition from sociological and personality studies to its current role in disease risk factors.
• To critically evaluate the medicalized understanding of lifestyle.

Main Methods:

• Historical analysis of the lifestyle concept.
• Literature review tracing its origins and evolution.
• Categorization of lifestyle uses along an idealist-materialist continuum.

Main Results:

• The concept originated in sociology and personality studies.
• It is now frequently used to denote behavioral risk factors for disease.
• Similarities exist between lifestyle and cultural integration concepts.
• Lifestyle uses can be categorized on an idealist-materialist spectrum.

Conclusions:

• Medicalized definitions of lifestyle often overlook the importance of context and meaning.
• A nuanced understanding of lifestyle is crucial in sociomedical research.
• Future research should consider the socio-cultural context of health-related behaviors.