(2 lectures; 1 conference) A survey of major issues in the developing field of health psychology: historical perspective; health effects of stress; pain mechanisms and management; prevention and management of chronic diseases, hypertension, coronary heart disease, cancer, and immunological disorders. Behaviour change strategies for smoking, overeating, physical inactivity, and sexual risk behaviour.

Instructor: Blaine Ditto
Time: M 13:35-16:25
Location: MCMED 522
 

Content:  This course provides a review of major issues in the developing field of health psychology. The purpose of the course is to provide a balanced presentation of theoretical, empirical and clinical aspects of the field.  Data from a number of disciplines, particularly social psychology, physiology, psychophysiology, epidemiology, and medicine will be integrated throughout the course in an effort to provide a perspective that reflects the underlying goals of the discipline. The course will explore the development of the field, its research methodologies, theoretical models and intervention possibilities.

Areas include: coronary heart disease and Type A behavior, cancer, smoking, overeating and nutrition, pain mechanisms and management and immune function.

This course is designed for the undergraduates with an interest in the role of psychological factors in health and disease from a psycho-socio-biological perspective. The course is particularly relevant for students with interests in nursing, medicine, epidemiology, public health, education/counseling, or careers in other health related professions.