Ecological predictors of health-related quality of life among children from low-income families in South Korea

Abstract

Background: Previous studies on children’s HRQoL have focused on children with certain diseases or conditions. Additionally, the factors that influence children’s HRQoL that were investigated in previous studies were limited to intrapersonal and interpersonal factors. Therefore, the present study attempts to identify the factors that influence HRQoL among children from low-income families using a multifaceted approach that includes organizational aspects as well as intrapersonal and interpersonal aspects by applying the ecological model. Methods: This study employed a descriptive, correlational, non-experimental research design. The convenience sample included 141 school-age children from low-income families using a community child care center. Data were collected using a structured self-report survey, and HRQoL was measured by PedsQL 4.0 generic core scales. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was employed. Findings: The mean score of the children’s HRQoL was 77.35 out of 100. The predictors that influenced the HRQoL of the children were health perception, health-promoting behaviors at the intrapersonal level, peer support at the interpersonal level, and the daily time use at the center at the organizational level. These variables accounted for 48.2% of the variance in HRQoL. Discussion: The HRQoL of children from low-income families was influenced not only by intrapersonal factors but also by environmental factors. Therefore, it is necessary to provide multi-level interventions to improve these children’s HRQoL.