Health Psychology

This course explores the psychological factors that influence health, illness, and healthcare behaviors. This course examines the connection between psychological well-being and physical health, focusing on how stress, coping mechanisms, behavior, and emotions affect health outcomes. Students will learn about behavior change strategies, the role of health beliefs in promoting or hindering healthy behaviors, and the psychological aspects of managing chronic illness. The course emphasizes the role of health psychology in creating interventions to promote healthier behaviors, prevent illness, and improve patient outcomes.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Understanding the Mind-Body Connection: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how psychological factors such as stress, emotions, and personality influence physical health and well-being.
• Applying Behavior Change Strategies: Learn how to apply behavior change theories and strategies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing, to encourage individuals to adopt healthier behaviors and manage illness more effectively.
• Exploring Psychological Factors in Illness Management: Develop insights into how patients cope with chronic illnesses and the psychological interventions that healthcare professionals can use to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
• Designing Health Interventions: Gain the ability to design evidence-based health interventions that address both psychological and physical aspects of health, promoting holistic care and improved health outcomes for individuals and communities.

These outcomes aim to prepare students for careers in healthcare, public health, and health counseling by equipping them with the knowledge and skills to understand and address the psychological factors that influence health behaviors and outcomes.