title: Optimal health and well-being for women: definitions and strategies derived from focus groups of women.
abstract: Women participating in focus groups were asked how they define health and well-being, and what strategies they would suggest for health optimization. Women defined health and well-being largely in terms of relationships. Their strategies for improving health involved enhancement of the quality of relationships with families, partners, and community. These proposed strategies included: creating a context for resilience; valuing and nurturing children, parents, and families; promoting interpersonal connections and community; realizing equality for women; and cultivating relational values. These perspectives can inform clinicians and health policy.
authors.affiliation: Institute for Children, Youth and Families, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA.
authors.forename: Shelley
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Kasle
authors.forename: Mari S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Wilhelm
authors.forename: Kathryn L
authors.initials: KL
authors.lastname: Reed
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000739:Anecdotes as Topic; D001130:Arizona; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D011788:Quality of Life; D012649:Self Concept; D012944:Social Support; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014481:United States; D016387:Women's Health