Demographic factors: interaction effects on health-promoting behavior and health related factors

The purpose of this study was to examine the main and interaction effects of race, gender, and education on health-promoting behaviors, problem solving appraisal, health value, and health definition. Using a convenience sample of 331 employees, a series of three-way ANOVAs were performed. Only gender exerted main effects on health-promoting behaviors, including exercise, relaxation, and health promotion. No interaction effects were presented. Neither main nor interaction effects were found for approaching problems and having confidence in solving problems. However, interaction effects indicated that better educated women and better educated black employees perceived less personal control when solving problems. Women valued health more than men, even though there were no gender, race or education differences in the sample's definition of health. Community health nurses and workplace wellness planners are challenged to design programs sensitive to gender differences regarding health behaviors and the valuing of health. Developing training programs to enhance personal control over problem situations is also indicated.