HEALTH, WELL BEING AND BEHAVIOURAL RESEARCH

Abstract

Health, well-being, and behavioural research has evolved beyond a narrow biomedical focus to include psychological, social, and contextual dimensions of human health. Contemporary healthcare research recognises that health behaviours are shaped not only by biological factors but also by individual perceptions, lived experiences, social environments, and structural conditions. This chapter examines the role of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches in understanding health and behaviour, highlighting the importance of subjective well-being, behavioural theories, and social determinants of health. It further explores key behavioural models, particularly the Health Belief Model, and discusses biosocial and life-course perspectives that explain how health behaviours develop, persist, and change over time. By integrating methodological and theoretical insights, this chapter emphasises the need for context-sensitive, person-centred, and ethically grounded research to inform effective health promotion and intervention strategies.