PSY6052 - Aspects of Health Psychology

Objectives:

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

(1) analyse and debate a range of issues and problems in Health Psychology, examine and appraise these issues and areas and assess the Key factors involved;
(2) Distinguish and differentiate Key processes of interaction between Psychological and Biological Functions that lead to illness and compare and evaluate the relevant factors;
(3) Operate, and become autonomous in the use of, skills in assessment, diagnosis and amelioration relevant to health issues and measure, appraise and calculate health variables in relevant practical contexts.
(4) Demonstrate knowledge of key models and processes in Health Psychology.

Content:

The General Adaptation Syndrome. Stress and illness. The psychology of pain. The over-training syndrome. The psychological and biological effects of exercise and exercise participation.

The relationship between personality and illness. Type A and Type B personality. Somatisation disorders.

A critique of the medical, social and WHO models of illness and disability. Problems and issues of physical and mental disability. Aspects of mental health, especially depression and anxiety.

The field of Psychoneuroimmunology.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Lecture
Contact hours 20
Number of groups 1

Seminars/Tutorials
Contact hours 2
Number of groups 5

Practicals
Contact hours 2
Number of groups 5

Assessment:

001 A3 Poster (1000 word equiv) with explanatory notes and reference log end of semester 1 50%
002 Unseen exam 1 x 1.5 hours end of semester 2 50%


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