HSC1062

Mind and body ( 12 points, SCA Band 2, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Santha James

Offered:
Peninsula Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit conceptualises the interaction of biological and psychological processes in health. It provides a foundation for a holistic approach to optimising health both at individual and community levels. The functional anatomy and physiology of body systems across the lifespan are covered, emphasising homeostasis and comparing physical and physiological milestones. The interaction of perception, cognition, emotion, behaviour, physical and social environments that impact on health, and health behaviour change central to prevention and cure are highlighted. Various paradigms are applied to evaluate the application of psychophysiological principles of coping with stress and chronic diseases.

Objectives: By the completion of this unit, it is expected that the student will be able to 1. outline historic and cultural perspectives of mind-body interactions in health and health care practices; 2. use anatomical / directional / medical / psychological terminology appropriately; 3. demonstrate skills in the observation, presentation and critical evaluation of primary data in mind-body assessments; 4. apply physical and chemical principles and the concept of homeostasis to physiological processes at the cellular, tissue, systemic and organismic levels and demonstrate an understanding of chronological changes in structure and function of the various body systems; 5. define psychology and list various branches of psychology; 6. describe and compare different life stages within major developmental theories, linking them to biological growth stages; 7. account for some of the factors that influence physical, physiological, cognitive, social, and affective development in humans; 8. demonstrate an understanding of the importance of observable behaviour as a source of information about the individual and explain differences in reactions to illness and loss; 9. examine the relationship between biological factors, psychological factors and wellbeing and between lifestyle choices and health outcomes in conditions affecting selected systems across the lifespan; 10. explain the role of stress in illness and how stress management is a key component of preventive health and personal well-being; 11. demonstrate an understanding of Mendelian genetics in humans and the nature and significance of genetic diseases highlighting ethical and moral issues in genetic counselling; and 12. explain the biological basis for mind-body interactions in health and disease

Assessment: Online Quizzes (2): 20% + Case Report and Presentation (Small Group Assignment): 30% + Laboratory Reports: 10% + Examination: 40% + Hurdle requirement: 80% Tutorial and Laboratory Attendance

Contact Hours: 12 hours contact time (lectures/team teaching - 5hrs; small group classes - 4hrs) and practicals - 3hrs) and 12 hours private study per week.