Course content

This Health Psychology course offers a comprehensive examination of foundational theories and contemporary research in health psychology. Emphasis is placed on the biopsychosocial framework, addressing how biological, psychological, and social factors shape physical and mental health. Students will explore the complex interaction of these factors and their impact on health promotion, illness prevention, and quality of life.

Key topics include stress, pain, disability, chronic illness, health-promoting behaviors, quality of life, and social support. Additionally, the course addresses relevant current health issues in Norway and internationally, such as digital health, obesity, addiction among youth, and sleep disorders. These topics connect with ongoing research efforts within the Department of Psychology and NTNU.

Learning outcome

Knowledge Objectives Students will be able to:

• Understand core concepts of health and illness.

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of how various biological, psychological, social, and economic factors influence health, education, employment, and quality of life across the lifespan.

• Understand and apply theories and models related to health and illness research.

• Identify and support behaviors that promote health and prevent illness.

• Recognize psychological aspects of disability, discrimination, and social inclusion.

• Develop knowledge of health-related skills and their effects on diverse groups’ health behaviors and coping strategies.

• Exhibit understanding of ethical, epidemiological, and economic considerations for health promotion and prevention strategies.

• Identify common acute and chronic diseases, palliative care considerations, and associated risk factors.

Skill Objectives Students will be able to:

• Describe health issues as a function of biological, personal, and social influences.

• Analyze relevant theoretical, scientific, and ethical issues within health psychology.

• Apply the biopsychosocial model in written and oral presentations of health psychology phenomena.

• Communicate in the practice using health psychology and public health concepts.

General Competence The student will be able to:

1. Understand and critically evaluate foundational concepts and theories in health psychology, including models like the biopsychosocial framework and behavior change theories.

1. Effectively communicate research findings in writing within health psychology, with a focus on evidence-based disease prevention and health promotion strategies.

1. Adapt communication on disease prevention and health promotion for interdisciplinary teams, community stakeholders, and the general public.

1. Identify and outline the core components of disease prevention and health promotion interventions, bridging theory with practical application.

Learning methods and activities

he course employs a blend of traditional lectures and seminars using innovative resources, including AI tools for learning, group collaboration, significant learning and flipped classroom techniques. Students actively participate in lectures and complete guided tasks. Throughout the semester, students collaborate on a group project culminating in a written report and oral presentation in the classroom.

Some lectures will be in English, but the course is not open to incoming students

Compulsory assignments

• Oral presentation
• • 80% compulsory attendance at lectures and seminars

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

Requires admission to study program:

Psychology (MPSY) specialisation in Community, Health and Environmental Psychology