Abstract

Introduction

Salutogenesis is an academic orientation that seeks to highlight the factors that actively promote the health and well-being of people, offering greater control over their lives and health. Within this approach, the assets for the health of the population available in the community stand out.

Objective

Review the literature on the main occupations or significant activities considering the approach of assets for health in young people.

Method

A literature review was carried out in the PubMed, Science Direct (Elsevier) and Virtual Health Library databases, between the years 2013-2019. The descriptors “health assets” AND (Children OR Adolescents) and “Activos para la salud” AND jóvenes were applied. Ten articles were chosen from the 145 screened.

Results

Ten articles were selected and analysed. The most relevant health assets identified in young people are self-knowledge and self-confidence. Regarding occupation, they consider that leading a healthy lifestyle, having a purposeful life, leisure and social relationships are the main identified health assets. On the other hand, a strong impact of the relationship with the family for health assets has been identified.

Conclusion

It is essential to include in the occupational therapy intervention with the young population the identification of health assets and how they impact health and well-being. In addition, it is important to investigate how health assets can reduce community social inequality.

Keywords:
Youth; Health Promotion; Community Participation; Occupational Therapy; Activities of Daily Living