Unit 24: Health Psychology

Health Psychology investigates the relationship between the biological, psychosocial, cultural, and social-environmental factors that influence health. Specific causations in relation to various illnesses are investigated and tailored interventions to meet the needs of individuals, groups and communities are considered.

Students will critically explore different theoretical perspectives and approaches of health with particular emphasis on the causes and behavioural processes that influence or prevent deterioration and the development of an illness. Students will also examine different disorders that have a significant psychological dimension including eating disorders, stress and anxiety, alcohol and drug dependency. They will analyse the different factors and combinations of factors that give rise to these conditions and affect their diagnosis, prognosis and treatment.