Health Promoting Universities and the salutogenic theory: contemporary challenges in the Latin American reality

Abstract

The objective is to reflect on the existing articulation between Aaron Antonovsky’s salutogenic theory and Health Promoting Universities, highlighting the challenges for the operationalization of health promotion actions in the Latin American university scenario in the contemporary world. The visible adherence of the ideas of the salutogenic theory to the guiding components of the Health Promoting Universities movement was identified, which has contributed to successful experiences around the world. Practices in the light of salutogenic theory can be considered effective strategies for improving the quality of life in the university setting; however, it is necessary for those involved to detach themselves so that the logic of acting based on a pathogenic process is broken. Furthermore, regional challenges in the Latin American reality must be understood and overcome with the support of public policies.