Reference no: EM133224990
What Is Health Psychology?
Today, we face more chronic diseases than ever because we live longer lives while behaving in unhealthy ways. One example of a chronic illness is coronary heart disease. It is the number one cause of death worldwide (World Health Organization, 2019). Health psychology is a relatively new, interdisciplinary field of study that focuses on the role of psychology in maintaining health and preventing and treating illness.
Health psychology relies on the Biopsychosocial Model of Health. This model proposes that biology, psychology, and social factors are just as crucial in disease development as biological causes (e.g., germs, viruses). The physical component describes the medical approach, addressing the physiological and mental issues at the root of the behaviour. The psychosocial part describes the interaction of social, cultural, and environmental influences on the mind and behaviour.
The Importance Of Good Health Practices
As a student, you probably strive to maintain good grades, have an active social life, and stay healthy (e.g., by getting enough sleep), but it seems impossible to achieve all three simultaneously. Unfortunately, the busy life of a college student doesn't always allow you to maintain all three areas of your life, especially during test-taking periods. In one study, researchers found that students taking exams were more stressed and, thus, smoked more, drank more caffeine, had less physical activity, and had worse sleep habits (Oaten & Chang, 2005 (Links to an external site.)), all of which could have detrimental effects on their health. Positive health practices are critical in times of stress when your immune system is compromised due to high pressure and the elevated frequency of exposure to the illnesses of others like your classmates in campus-based classes or coworkers.
- What psychological factors contribute to health?
- Which psychosocial constructs and behaviours might help protect us from the damaging effects of stress?