Introduction

Health psychology promotes an understanding of behaviour that leads to a healthier lifestyle. Health psychologists have investigated the causes of health problems such as stress, substance misuse and eating disorders. One of the benefits of their research has been the development of prevention and treatment strategies in these areas.

Health psychologists consider the interaction of psychological, physiological, social and cultural factors in relation to the causes of health problems. These same factors may affect the response of individuals to health campaigns and treatments.

There are differences in attitudes towards health behaviour among different cultures, as well as variations in the prevalence of health problems such as stress, eating disorders and smoking. Research in health psychology has drawn public attention to the problems that surround these areas, and has helped to identify possible links between physical and mental health.

Methods used in health psychology include longitudinal studies, case studies and double-blind testing.

Objectives of the Unit:

Students should expect questions asking them to:

1. Describe and evaluate relevant theories and empirical studies related to health psychology
2. Explain, where appropriate, how cultural, ethical, gender and methodological considerations
may affect the interpretation of behaviour in health psychology
3. Describe and evaluate methodologies used in health psychology
4. Describe and evaluate applications of research findings and theories in health psychology
5. Analyze the predictive value of theories and studies when applied to an individual’s
health-related behaviour
6. Examine ways in which physical and mental health may be interrelated.

Content:

Stress

• physiological and psychological aspects of stress
• Coping with stress

Addictive Behaviour

• Substance use and misuse
• Disordered patterns of eating

Physical and mental health research

• Focus of research (Applications)
• Use of placebos

General material: Since we do not study this topic, here are some articles and links that you may find interesting.

• Addiction to Cigarettes
• Anxiety, stress, fear, anger: Psychology with Sandy, Video
• Coping with Stress: The Truth about Psychoneuro Immunology Video
• David Hoffman: How would you feel if you lost everything? Video
• The Executive Monkey Study
• Happiness (60 Minutes Special Report) Video
• Juror Stress and its effect on the verdict
• Martin Seligman on Hardtalk
• The Obesity Epidemic
• Placebo Effect Explained
• Positive Psychology at Harvard Video
• The psychology of the heart - stress and heart disease
• Stress and immunity
• Stressed parents make children ill
• Stress in Bosnia
• Types of Stress