NUR1401

Health and human behaviour ( 6 points, SCA Band 0, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Ms Sue Henderson (Gippsland), Ms Kay McCauley (Peninsula) & Ms Lyn Faulks (Mildura)

Offered:
Gippsland First semester 2006 (Day)
MILDURA First semester 2006 (Day)
Peninsula First semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit will provide an opportunity for students to develop knowledge and skills relevant to understanding how and why human beings behave the way they do during times of health and illness. It will address psychological and behavioural factors associated with the maintenance and breakdown of health and wellbeing in clients and nurses responsible for their care. Students will be introduced to aspects of health psychology as a foundation for nursing practice.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students are expected to be able to, demonstrate knowledge of basic psychological processes related to human behaviour; understand the influence of psychological factors on the human experience of illness; describe factors influencing the adoption or maintenance of the well or sick role; use a biopsychosocial framework to observe and describe human behaviour in the management of illness; understand and discuss the concept of individual difference in adapting to the demands of maintaining health across the lifespan; describe coping methods employed be clients and nurses during changes of lifestyle related to health.

Assessment: Written assignment: 50% + Written examination: 50%

Contact Hours: 3 hours per week (lecture, tutorial)