Capturing the lifestyle practices of university students: a case study in Zimbabwe

Abstract

Unhealthy lifestyle practices are fast becoming a global challenge and affecting most university students. A review of literature revealed that a relationship exists between lifestyle practices and academic performance. Identified related studies seem to lack a holistic approach. A qualitative case study was conducted in Zimbabwe to study holistically the lifestyle practices of university students in order to find its impact on academic performance. The theory of planned behavior and health belief model guided this study. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and observations. Saldana’s inductive model was employed for data analysis. The findings showed that university students were engaged in both positive and negative lifestyle practices; several specific positive and negative lifestyle-related activities were identified. The prevalent lifestyle practices were attributed to both institutional and personal dynamics. Lifestyle practices had both positive and negative impact among students. The university is recommended to integrate lifestyle principles into the curriculum. A multiple case study can be conducted to shed additional insights in this area.