Health psychology (BPS220)

Content

The course explores the intersection and overlap between psychology and somatic medicine, focusing on a holistic understanding of the co-variation and interaction of the body, mind, and environment. Students will gain knowledge of theories and methods to understand and predict the development of health and ill-health. The main focus is on methods for health promotion as well as prevention and treatment of disease.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

On successful completion of this course, students will

• have knowledge of fundamental theories, methods, and models concerning the overlap between psychology and somatic medicine 
• understand how diseases and related pathophysiology interact with psychological and behavioral factors
• have knowledge of basic features of health psychology working methods, with particular emphasis on various biopsychosocial factors
• have knowledge of the main features of health-promoting methodologies
• have knowledge of the relative strengths and weaknesses of different health-promoting measures at the community level

Skills

On successful completion of this course, students will

• be able to discuss interventions that are aimed at the overlap between psychology and somatic medicine and how these can be applied in working life
• be able to explain stress theory, chronic illness, social support, and quality of life
• be able to explain the significance of psychological and social factors for health, well-being, and illness
• be able to discuss the main theories for the prevention of health problems and the main features of health-promoting methodologies
• be able to discuss key similarities and differences between health-promoting and preventative work

General competencies

On successful completion of this course, students will

• be able to explain fundamental concepts and theories within the field of health psychology
• be able to critically reflect on health and unhealthiness/ill health

Required prerequisite knowledge

Recommended prerequisites

Exam

Coursework requirements

All of the compulsory activities must be approved in order for the student to be eligible for examination. Approval/non-approval of compulsory activities is announced on Studentweb, normally no later than 7 days before the examination. Students who lack approval of one or more compulsory activities will be withdrawn from the examination.

Compulsary activities:

• Seminars: Preparation for, attendance and participation in five seminars. Students who have less than 75% attendance at the seminars lose the right to take the examination, regardless of the reason.

• Written assignment: Written exercise/submission (one or partial submissions). A detailed activity plan will be provided by the course supervisor at the start of the lesson. Rated as approved/not approved.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Course teacher:

Study Program Director:

Method of work

The teaching consists of lectures, practice visits and seminars.

• Students are expected to prepare for lectures by reading relevant literature. The recommended reading is indicated in the lecture plan.
• In seminars, the different theoretical topics and methods are presented using a variety of different learning activities.

Open for

Literature