Health behaviors and mental health of students attending alternative high schools: A review of the research literature

摘要

Purpose. The purpose of this review is to describe current knowledge about health-risk behaviors and mental health among alternative high school students. Conclusions. Substance use, diet and/or physical activity, sexual-risk behaviors, mental health, and violence were reviewed. Students were described as marginalized youth facing significant social environmental challenges. Findings from 43 studies published from 1997-2010 suggested a high prevalence of health-risk behaviors among alternative high school students. Very few studies were conducted by nurse researchers. Suggestions for future research include addressing social environmental factors, resiliency, and emotional/mental health outcomes. Practice Implications. Alternative high schools offer a venue to conduct research and implement nursing interventions with high-risk, yet resilient, youth.