The salutogenic approach in the university educational environment: theoretical foundations and practical application

the modern educational system faces challenges related to increasing stress, declining motivation, and deteriorating mental health among students, driven by digitalization, socioeconomic uncertainty, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, Aaron Antonovsky’s salutogenic approach, which focuses on promoting health through the development of a sense of coherence (comprehensibility, manageability, meaningfulness) and generalized resistance resources, is highly relevant. The article examines the application of this approach in the university educational environment, highlighting its effectiveness in creating a health-promoting setting. An example is the Scientific and Educational Psychological Club at PNU, where, through the integration of theory and practice, collaborative learning, and reflection, students develop professional and personal resources that enhance psychological resilience. Salutogenesis advocates shifting the focus from problem elimination to strengthening students’ assets, thereby reducing anxiety and improving well-being.

educational environment, salutogenic approach, students, generalized resistance resources, sense of coherence, health-promoting environment