A Dual-Factor Approach to Mental Health Among General Adults in Korea: A Latent Profile Analysis

초록

This study identified mental health subgroups among Korean adults using the dual-factor model and latent profile analysis. Five hundred adults were assessed on internalizing symptoms, addiction-related behaviors, and positive mental health indicators. Four profiles emerged: Complete Mental Health, Symptomatic but Content, Vulnerable, and Troubled. Including addiction-related behaviors revealed a more nuanced profile structure, particularly highlighting the Symptomatic but Content group, which showed elevated behavioral risks despite relatively high well-being. These behaviors may serve as coping strategies and may also be shaped by cultural context. Differences in physical activity, social engagement, and adverse life experiences across profiles further support the validity of the classification. Findings underscore the importance of assessing both internalizing symptoms and addiction-related behaviors in adult mental health and affirm the ecological and clinical relevance of the dual-factor model. Results highlight the need for multidimensional approaches in public mental health policy and practice.

키워드