[Exploring the concept of healthy family from adolescents'perspectives in Zanjan]

ABSTRACT

Adolescents' development is one of the excellent goals of societies. Adolescence is peak of health, however there are risk factors address adolescents and developmental characteristics at this age which some are based on family's condition. These developmental changes impose new situations for the families which can result different functions. Identifying adolescents' perspectives and families' functions in that regard is nurses' responsibilities. The study aimed at exploring adolescents' perspectives on healthy family in Zanjan. Using qualitative method [content analysis], semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample of 27 adolescents, range in age from 10 to 27 to reach the data saturation level. Adolescents emphasized on family role in categories of communications within the family, healthy family, limitations, facilities and religious beliefs. The adolescents point out the importance of being understood by parents, the necessity of close relationships with them, having tolerance for their children mistakes, religious beliefs, not being limited as characteristics of a healthy family. Healthy family is crucial for adolescents' health. It is a fundamental issue in prospective health which require strategies for social and cultural reforms. Nursing is an interdisciplinary science and nurses have an extensive role in both adolescents' and families' health. Policymakers can provide realistic plans to facilitate family health issues by understanding adolscents' perspectives