This course studies how psychology improves our understanding of health and illness. We will particularly discuss the biopsychosocial model of health and illness, which highlights the interplay among psychosocial factors, physiological processes, and behavioural pattern involved in health and illness. We will examine the contribution of this biopsychosocial model to the understanding of: a) health promotion and illness prevention, b) responses to an illness and its recovery, and c) coping with chronic diseases. In each domain, we will discuss the basic concepts, explanatory theories, research methods, and interventions developed or adopted by health psychologists. Application of the knowledge to improving individual or public health in the local context is emphasized.

CILO-1: Articulate and integrate the theory and research of the field of health psychology. CILO-2: Identify and discuss the interplay of psychological, biological, behavioural, and social factors in the study of health issues. CILO-3: Describe the varieties of roles for psychologists in enhancing health and preventing illness on a public health basis.