The concept of lifestyle, in particular within health psychology, is currently undergoing a critical reworking to create more effective theoretical and explanatory models that can serve as the basis for health promotion interventions. In order to achieve this, the present article explores the main theories and definitions of lifestyle in the psychological field from a multidisciplinary perspective, mainly focusing on sociological and psychoanalytic approaches. The research identifies the main aspects that characterise the different conceptions of lifestyle, such as its internal dimension, external dimension and temporal dimension.
The internal dimension of lifestyle is defined as the way the individual organises their daily activities and practices to give meaning to their lives. This is the basis of the behavioural patterns that define the personality and orientate actions, and is therefore an important component of the concept. This dimension reflects the social and cultural context in which the individual develops, and the ways that their behaviour is influenced by it.
A second definition of lifestyle is based on the analysis of the structure within which individuals live, determining their action possibilities. This approach, which was developed primarily by sociologists, considers the relationship between the lifestyle of an individual and the broader system of power relations in their society. It is also based on the idea that lifestyles are constructed by the interaction between static and dynamic forces operating at a social level.
An external interpretation of the concept is linked to a desire for distinction or emulation. This is a central feature of the concept in the work of Max Weber, who defines lifestyles as distinctive elements of status groups, in which members display their own characteristics as well as those of the superior status group with which they belong or to which they aspire. In this case, the lifestyle reflects the values of each social class, as well as their behaviour, activities and daily practices.
Another interpretation of the concept is based on the notion that lifestyles are formed by a series of choices made by an individual and their influence on the health and behaviour of others. This perspective is commonly referred to as the ‘ecological model’ of lifestyles, and has been the focus of much research. This approach considers lifestyle to be a complex interaction between individuals and the wider community, and is therefore seen as an important factor in promoting healthy lifestyles.
Finally, the last view of the concept focuses on an individual’s choice of lifestyle, considering that they are the creators and protagonists of their own health. This perspective is a significant departure from the common tendency in health psychology to view lifestyles as predetermined and deterministic, and a key element of risk behaviour. It is also more consistent with the salutogenic and ecosystem perspectives of health, which consider a healthy lifestyle as the capacity to achieve a balance between the bio-psycho-social needs of an individual and the requirements of their environment. The study provides an indication of a possible agenda for future research on the concept of lifestyle.