Health Psychology

3 units

This course explores the complex interactions between biological, psychological and social factors as they influence health, health behaviors and coping with illness. In a seminar format, students read, present and discuss empirical literature related to health psychology. Specific class topics include the history and current roles of health psychology as a professional discipline, theoretical models of health and illness prevention with an emphasis on the biopsychosocial model, stress, pain, and the role of biopsychosocial factors in several specific medical illnesses including diabetes, asthma, heart disease, and cancer. Developmental issues related to health knowledge and perception, disease management and coping with illness are also discussed.