Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit will examine the range of psychological factors influencing people's health behaviour, their susceptibility and reactions to illness states and responses to medical treatment. Health psychology encompasses the application of psychological theories to the study of the maintenance and promotion of health, the prevention of illness and the dysfunction and the rehabilitation of those already disabled. This unit is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to evaluate the effects of psychological variables on health and illness behaviour, the prevention of illness and adjustment to illness and dysfunction. Compulsory weekend school for off-campus students.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. explain the role of psychosocial variables in health and illness states, and deficiencies in the biomedical model;

2. explain the importance of psychosocial factors in patient adjustments to illness and dysfunction, treatment and rehabilitation;

3. indicate how they, as health psychologists, can function as an important member of the health care team; and

4. design educative programs in health psychology.

Assessment

Examination (2 hours): 50%
Report (2000 words): 30%
Literature review (1,500 words): 20%
Hurdle requirement: 75% lab attendance

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Graeme Hyman

Contact hours

Compulsory attendance at a 1-day weekend school is required for all off-campus students

Off-campus attendance requirements

Compulsory attendance at weekend schools is required for all off-campus students

Co-requisites

PSY2031 (or PSY2011 & PSY2022)

Prohibitions

APY3080

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.med.monash.edu.au/psych/course/ugrad/major-minor.html