The purpose of this study was to understand the factors influencing the health promoting behaviors (HPBs) of military spouses. Pender's Health Promotion Model provided the theoretical framework guiding this study. One hundred twelve female spouses were surveyed regarding their perceived health status, perceived stress, self-efficacy, social support, and participation in HPBs. Perceived health status, self-efficacy, social support, and HPBs were positively related, whereas perceived stress was negatively related. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed perceived stress and social support to be predictive of an overall health promoting lifestyle (HPLPII), with the full model explaining 49.7% of the variance.

Healthcare providers should routinely inquire about a patient's possible military affiliation. Military spouses need to be assessed for current stress levels and coping behaviors used in order to provide the most appropriate recommendations and referrals. As healthcare providers, understanding the unique demands of the military lifestyle is necessary to provide effective quality care with optimal health outcomes in this population.