PSYC 353(F) Behavioral Medicine
The objective of this course is to explore the application of behavioral science to the promotion of individual health and the practice of medicine. Topics include: models of health behavior change, assessment and prevention of health risk behaviors, psychological factors associated with specific medical conditions, and the nature of the patient-physician relationship. Students will examine and critically evaluate theories and research underlying the most common clinical interventions employed by professional health psychologists in medical settings, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and stress management techniques. Throughout the course, students will also consider current trends, multicultural perspectives, and controversial issues in the rapidly evolving field of behavioral medicine.
Format: Empirical Lab Course. Requirements: midterm exam, weekly reaction papers to assigned readings, and an empirical project.
Prerequisites: Psychology 201 and Psychology 252 or permission of instructor. Enrollment limit: 19 (expected: 19). Preference will be given to Psychology majors.
Hour: J. GREER