Technologies

Survey Tool Enables Researchers to Capture Critical Data about Promoting Health Services to Young Adult Males

UCF researchers have developed a valuable survey tool that can help organizations improve their healthcare service and delivery systems aimed at young adult and adolescent males (YAAMs). With the Young Adult and Adolescent Male Health Behavior Indicators Scale, health organizations can gain deeper insight into the health-related attitudes, perceptions and experiences of YAAM populations and the health disparities that they encounter. Such key data offer opportunities for designing and implementing more effective health services and programs for young adult male populations, such as those aged 13 to 26 years old.

Technical Details

The invention uses a novel methodological approach known as structured phenomenology, which identifies the underlying mechanisms contributing to health disparities experienced by males. Included as part of the approach, is a series of semi-structured interviews that focus on learning about YAAM health behavior decisions and related outcomes. Participant responses are categorized into core themes related to YAAM health (such as masculinity, health and wellness, competition/risk-taking, and violence). By capturing the core essence of how the YAAM population conceptualizes and views certain health topics and associated behaviors, health organizations can create more reliable and accurate information and communication systems, medical terminologies, and guidelines to improve the effectiveness of YAAMs patient care delivery.