PSY6422 - Biopsychology of Stress and Health

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

(1) Demonstrate knowledge of the concept of biopsychological stress, its mechanisms and function.
(2) Critically evaluate modern approaches to understanding stress and the impact of stress on health
(3) Synthesize and apply modern research findings on the impact of stress to the evaluation of potential interventions to reduce stress-related illness and disease
(4) Apply practical laboratory techniques required for biopsychology research in preparation for the group practical assessment

Content:

Unique in our ability to worry about things that have not happened (anticipatory stress), human beings are especially vulnerable to the consequences of stress. This module will take a modern and biological approach; exploring in depth the effects that stress hormones have on our physiological and psychological well-being. Students will consider the differences between acute stress and chronic stress, and the effects of the latter on: the heart; our metabolism and eating habits; our development (growth); sexual reproduction; the immune system; and pain tolerance.

In the Second Semester, we will consider the effects of a single chronic stressor – tinnitus – in depth, as well as looking at further effects of chronic stress on memory and sleep. We will discuss what psychological stress is, as well as looking at anxiety, depression, drug dependence, and the effects of socio-economic class. Finally, the module will look at ways in which the individual can successfully age and avoid the problems above.

Learning and Teaching Information:

The delivery of the module will be largely through use of weekly 1 hour formal lectures and 1 hour tutorials (alternate weeks). The use of the VLE is essential and will provide access to supplementary material and module guidance.

workshops.

Lectures
Contact Hours: 20
Number of Groups:1

Tutorials
Contact Hours:10
Number of Groups:2

Assessment:

001 Academic Poster (semester 1) 25%
002 Assessed Portfolio 1000 - 1500 words (semester 1) 25%
003 Essay 1 x 2500 words (semester 2) 50%


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