Year Level: Year 2 to 4
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to how psychology can help people live longer and stay healthier. It will examine the role of psychological factors in physical well-being and illness. Specifically, focus is put on how psychological aspects and factors contribute to the prevention and treatment of illness, recovery from illness, and the promotion and maintenance of good health. Topics covered include field research methods, health enhancing and compromising behaviors, stress and coping, social support, pain and its management, and the role of psychological and social factors in the etiology and course of chronic and terminal illness in contemporary society. Overall, positive health psychology will be the main focus of the course.