Teaching Responsibility
LJMU Schools involved in Delivery:
LJMU Partner Taught
Learning Methods
Online
Module Offerings
7501PSYSCI-APR-PAR
7501PSYSCI-JAN-PAR
7501PSYSCI-SEP-PAR
Aims
The module will explore psychological theory, as it relates to health and health care. It will examine some of the major threats to public health, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Students will study the historical and philosophical origins of health psychology and key theoretical models and research methods in health psychology. Students will examine, in depth, biopsychosocial factors involved in the enhancement of health and prevention of illness, e.g. perception of risk, illness perceptions, and individual differences. They will be introduced to self- management in the context of long term conditions. Additionally, content will consider specific health problems and their impact on the individual, significant others, and society.
Learning Outcomes
1.
Delineate the major features of current theories and approaches in health psychology with reference to related disciplines.
2.
Critically discuss the role of biological, psychological, social and economic factors in the enhancement of health and/or the development and maintenance of illness.
3.
Critically evaluate a variety of research methodologies utilized in the field of health psychology
4.
Select appropriate theories/models in health psychology and apply these to a given case study to improve health
5.
Critically evaluate the literature in the area of applied health psychology
Module Content
Outline Syllabus:The causes of illness and disease are varied and complex, and understanding health requires the expertise of a wide array of health professionals including doctors, nurses, midwifes, dietitians, epidemiologists and, of course, psychologists. This module develops students’ knowledge and understanding of health psychology, one of the newest and most rapidly expanding fields of modern psychology. The module will explore psychological theory, as it relates to health and health care. In general, health psychologists work in two areas. Firstly, conducting research aimed towards understanding, explaining, developing and testing theory; secondly, by putting theory into practice and evaluating outcomes. In this module students will explore both aspects of health psychology. They will have the opportunity to apply their knowledge to one of a choice of case studies provided to them.
Additional Information:The module will explore psychological theory, as it relates to public health care and promotion of health. It will also examine some of the major threats to public health, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.