Course content

The subject includes theories and models to understand the relationship between behavior and health. Different biopsychosocial factors will be emphasized in the understanding of physical and mental health, both with regard to promotion and maintenance of health and in prevention of illness. Relevant topics are quality of life, stress and coping with stress, pain, serious and chronic illness and death, and social support.

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Learning outcome

Knowledge:

• The student becomes familiar with the influence of psychological and social factors on health, well-being and illness.
• The student has knowledge and insight into relevant theories and empirical data within the health psychology fields.

Skills:

• The student has knowledge about the literature and can develop relevant research question(s) and write a term paper within the field.
• The student can seek in central databases for relevant scientific publications within the field of health psychology.

General competence:

• The student is familiar with central concepts and theories, and shall be able to report research findings, both orally and in written form, within the field of health psychology.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures, seminars and individual guidance.

Specific conditions

Required previous knowledge

When available capacity, students from Master in Psychology may do this course.

Course materials

See Reading list.

Credit reductions