Health Psychology

This course comprises an overview of current topics in health psychology. Health psychology focuses on psychological and behavioral processes that influence an individual´s health status, illness and personal healthcare in general. Topics that will be covered include basics of health psychology as a discipline, research and current trends. Further we will also focus on the influence of psychological state on health status and the course and prognosis of medical illness. By the end of the course, students will gain knowledge concerning the field of health psychology. Students will be able to discuss current topics of health psychology, basic terminology, and influence of one´s psychological state on the course and treatment of medical illnesses. Further, students will be able to critically evaluate the research done within the field and understand the relationship between health and one’s psychological state. They will also be able to understand how psychological factors together with behavioral and cultural aspects can contribute to the development of physical health. By the end of the course, students will gain knowledge concerning the field of health psychology. Students will be able to discuss current topics of health psychology, basic terminology, and influence of one´s psychological state on the course and treatment of medical illnesses. Further, students will be able to critically evaluate the research done within the field and understand the relationship between health and one’s psychological state. They will also be able to understand how psychological factors together with behavioral and cultural aspects can contribute to the development of physical health.