PSY 4620

Description

This course surveys health psychology and behavioral medicine. It examines the science that connects behavior to health in a biopsychosocial model, including the psychological processes and relationships between health and human behavior. Current research into the prevention, treatment, and causes of health –related disorders are also examined.

Objectives

1. Describe the field of health psychology and basic concepts and methods within the discipline, including an explanation of the biopsychosocial approach within which the field is defined and operationalized.
2. Appraise the physiological systems of the human body as they relate to health and illness, and their interaction with psychological processes.
3. Discuss the role of health promotion and health behaviors in primary prevention, including empirically-based approaches to facilitate change in health-related behaviors.
4. Discuss biopsychosocial factors associated with specific health-related behaviors such as substance use, exercise, wellness, weight control, stress, and sleep.
5. Describe the research on stress and health, including moderators such as coping responses, resiliency, social support, mindfulness, and stress management techniques.
6. Discuss issues associated with health care utilization and services, including the doctor-patient relationship, communication and adherence, the health care system, and hospitalization.
7. Assess the biopsychosocial perspective and research associated with pain, chronic illnesses, immune-related disorders, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and Type II diabetes.
8. Discuss psychological issues in terminal illness, death, and dying.

PreRequisites

PSY 1010: General Psychology or equivalent

Textbook(s)

* Disclaimer: Textbooks listed are based on the last open revision of the course. Prior revisions and future revisions may use different textbooks. To verify textbook information, view the course syllabus or contact the CSU Bookstore at bookstore@columbiasouthern.edu