PSYC 255 - Health Psychology

(3 hours) Prerequisites: PSYC 110. This class is designed to introduce the basic concepts of Health Psychology, the exciting interdisciplinary field of study that bridges psychology, biology and sociology. Students will be introduced to different medical disorders and diseases and the implications for the psychological health and impact on psychological functioning of individuals with these disorders. Students will study physical limitations and adaptations. They will understand basic ADA law. Psychological treatments for persons with disorders and physical limitations will be introduced. Topics covered will include depression and illness, traumatic injuries, neuromuscular diseases, cancer and chronic pain. Also covered will be the use of psychological techniques to improve behaviors for wellness such as relaxation, biofeedback, and behavioral goal setting.