The course provides an overview of major content areas in health psychology including stress and coping, principles of positive psychology, health and wellness of the person in context, and psychological influences on chronic illnesses. Consideration of cross-cultural psychology and critical perspectives such as systems theory and issues related to minorities in the community are also considered. Candidates will learn to develop, implement, and evaluate individual, group and societal intervention programs (e.g., life skills programs), and program evaluation for primary preventive interventions within a variety of contexts.

CILO-1: Describe and apply major theories of stress and coping. CILO-2: Describe positive psychology including leading theoretical frameworks and research applications. CILO-3: Describe key health behaviors related to diet, exercise, and substance use as well as their determinants and consequences. CILO-4: Describe principles used to promote a healthy lifestyle. CILO-5: Describe causes, risk factors, and consequences related to pain and chronic illnesses. CILO-6: Describe cultural influences on health, lifestyle, and illness.