James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2021

PY2104 - Connecting Social, Psychological and Physical Health

Subject Description

This subject will introduce a number of issues in the field which has grown very rapidly in recent years under the rubric "health psychology". Health is analysed using the biopsychosocial model. The interaction between biological, psychological and social factors in the production of health and illness thus forms the main focus. The treatment of the subject will be to examine a number of topics and problems in depth, rather than give a more superficial treatment of a broad number of issues. Some of the areas covered include psychosocial stress and its affect on health; theoretical approaches to health behaviour change, stress management, disordered eating, health promotion, dispositional factors and health; influence of supportive networks on health, and motivation for health behaviour change.

Learning Outcomes

• critically appraise research into biopsychosocial interactions and health
• integrate ideas from health psychology in the promotion of mental and physical health
• identify, describe and discuss theoretical perspectives, research and methods in health psychology

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (40%) - Individual
• Oral > Presentation 1 - (30%) - Group & Individual
• Written > Literature review - (30%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Pass requirements: complete and submit all assessment items; achieve a cumulative score of at least 50% after the application of any penalties such as late penalties.

Assumed Knowledge:  To undertake this subject, students must have successfully completed 12 credit points (four subjects) of level 1 study at tertiary level

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  PY2084

Availabilities