PSY-825 Health Psychology

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to the interaction of psychological and biological factors in health and illness, and the effects of psychological interventions on high- and low-risk lifestyles and medical outcomes. Students become familiar with theories of psychobiological interactions, biological systems believed to be affected by this interaction, and assessment and intervention techniques used to alter health outcomes of these interactions. Specific diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and asthma are addressed, as are treatment compliance and the role of the psychologist in the medical setting.