ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Exploring the differences between young and middle-aged adults in intrinsic motivation towards healthy behaviours and mental health: cross-sectional study
1
Department of Public Health, Faculty of Public Health in Bytom, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland
2
Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia
in Katowice, Poland
3
APO Zdrowie Medical Center, Katowice, Poland
Submission date: 2025-12-31
Acceptance date: 2026-02-03
Publication date: 2026-03-04
Corresponding author
Tomasz Jurys
Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland
Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Health Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland
Rozprawy Społeczne/Social Dissertations 2026;20(1):24-34
KEYWORDS
TOPICS
ABSTRACT
Abstract: Early adulthood is a pivotal period for the establishment of health behaviours
and mental health patterns that have long-term implications for well-being. The objective
of this study was to investigate age-related variations in motivation for physical activity,
dietary habits, and levels of psychological distress. This investigation was undertaken to
support the development of preventive strategies across the lifespan. Material and methods: An observational study was conducted among two distinct age
groups: young adults (18-39 years) and middle-aged adults (40-65 years). Participants
completed questionnaires assessing intrinsic and extrinsic motivation for healthy
behaviour, psychological distress, and self-reported lifestyle habits. Results: A comparative analysis revealed that young adults exhibited significantly elevated
levels of psychological distress in contrast to their middle-aged counterparts. However, no
significant differences were observed between age groups in intrinsic motivation towards
healthy behaviours. These findings suggest that motivation alone may not account for agerelated
contrast in health behaviours. Conclusions: The results underscore the significance of examining additional psychosocial
and environmental factors during the promotion of healthy lifestyles. The implementation
of targeted, age-specific preventive interventions may contribute to the promotion of longterm physical and mental health.
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