Salutogenesis in Mexico and Latin America: Protocol For Scoping Review

The salutogenic model, introduced by Aaron Antonovsky, represents a fundamental paradigm shift from the traditional pathogenic orientation-which focuses on the etiology of disease-to a focus on the origins of health (salutogenesis). The core of this model is the Sense of Coherence, a global orientation that allows individuals to mobilize Generalized Resistance Resources to cope with the stressors of daily life. Although salutogenesis has been extensively researched in Europe and North America, its systematic application within diverse and multicultural contexts, marked by the inequity present in Mexico and Latin America, remains fragmented and insufficiently documented. There is a lack of clarity regarding how the model adapts to local realities, specifically in these countries.

The main objective of this study is to conduct a scoping review to systematically map the extent, range, and nature of research activity on salutogenesis in Mexico and Latin America published between 2010 and 2026. Secondary objectives include identifying the theoretical frameworks employed, describing the psychometric properties of the instruments used to study the Sense of Coherence model in Spanish, English, and Portuguese, as well as determining research gaps to identify future guidelines for health promotion.

This review will adhere to the methodological framework for scoping reviews developed by Arksey and O'Malley, refined by Levac et al, and the guidelines of the Joanna Briggs Institute. The protocol adheres to the PRISMA criteria for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A trilingual search (ie, English, Spanish, Portuguese) will be conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL, SciELO, LILACS, and Redalyc. Two independent reviewers will screen titles or abstracts and full-text articles, evaluating inter-rater reliability using Cohen Kappa coefficient. Data will be extracted using a piloted form and synthesized through descriptive numerical analysis and qualitative thematic analysis.

This protocol did not involve funding. The search strategy was finalized and preliminary searches were conducted in August 2025. Starting in February 2026, the study will begin the data integration phase. The final analysis is expected to be completed by August 2026, with submission for publication planned for December 2026.

This scoping review will be the first to provide a holistic view of salutogenic research in Latin America. By synthesizing the evidence on how the model is operationalized in this region, the study will provide critical insights for the transition of public health systems from a curative model to one that fosters health assets, supporting the design of culturally congruent interventions.