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This is an introductory course in health psychology. The focus is on the contributions of behavioural science to the promotion of health and the treatment of illness. Topics covered include determinants of health-related behaviours (e.g. smoking, diet), individual and population approaches to behaviour change, stress and coping, adjustment to illness.
Health psychology is concerned with understanding human behaviour in the context of physical health and illness. As such the field is a large one and this course aims to introduce students to a range of topics in the field. Topics include health promotion and prevention, determinants of health-related behaviours (e.g. smoking, diet, exercise), stress and coping, patient-practitioner communication, pain and its management, and management of chronic and serious illness. Health psychology applies theories from various psychological sub-disciples and as such has a natural affinity with several other courses at the undergraduate and graduate level including abnormal, social, personality, developmental and industrial-organizational psychology. PSYC339 is recommended preparation for PSYC434 Health Psychology: Theories and interventions (advanced course in health psychology).
(1) To provide students with a broad overview of the field of health psychology(2) To develop an understanding and appreciation of the complex interplay between physical well-being and a variety of biological, psychological, and social factors(3) To encourage interest in the area of health psychology(4) To encourage critical thinking about health psychological issues
PSYC206
Students must attend one activity from each section.
Roeline Kuijer
Abraham, C., Conner, M., Jones, F., & O'Connor, D; Health Psychology ; 2nd Edition; Routledge, 2016.
In addition to the textbook, additional readings will be assigned (available via LEARN)
Library portal
Domestic fee $1,833.00
International fee $9,500.00
* All fees are inclusive of NZ GST or any equivalent overseas tax, and do not include any programme level discount or additional course-related expenses.
For further information see School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing on the departments and faculties page .