Health psychology II: Lifestyle perspectives, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course deals with the relationship between lifestyle and health from a clinical and public health perspective. A biopsychosocial perspective is taken by emphasizing the interplay between biological, psychological and social factors and its consequences. Examples of areas covered in the course are the role of intersectionality and psychology in the most common public diseases, quality of life, the role behavior plays for health and ill health, and how behavior can be changed for a healthier lifestyle and for adherence to prescribed treatment. In addition to theoretical elements, exercise is given in motivational interviewing. The course also contains elements in current research and developmental work.

Expected learning outcomes

After completed course the student shall:

Knowledge and understanding
*    demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the role that intersectionality and psychology play in the most common public diseases and the importance of quality of life in health work
*    demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the concept of health behavior, the impact of behavior (e.g. physical activity, diet and alcohol consumption) on health, and how behavior can be changed for a healthier lifestyle and for improved adherence to prescribed treatment
*    show insight into current research and developmental work related to lifestyle and health

Skills and ability
*    demonstrate ability to conduct motivational interviewing
*    demonstrate ability to apply theories to lifestyle change and analyze its relevance to practical work
*    demonstrate the ability to orally and in writing clearly present and discuss conclusions and the knowledge and arguments that form the basis for these in dialogue with different groups

Evaluation ability and approach
*    actively and independently assess one's own knowledge needs and further develop one's skills, abilities and knowledge in health psychology

Required Knowledge

A Bachelor's degree (equivalent to a Swedish Kandidatexamen, 180 ECTS) from an internationally recognized university. Special requirements: 90 ECTS in health or behavioral science subjects (including physiotherapeutic and occupational therapeutic subjects). Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English B/6.

Form of instruction

The teaching is conducted in the form of lectures, seminars, research presentations, and practical exercises under supervision. The right to receive teaching and supervision applies only during the time the course, for which the student is registered to, is ongoing. The course is given in English.

Examination modes

The examination includes a written home examination, oral presentations at seminars, practical exercises, PMs, and a written literature review and oral presentation of the review.

Examining elements are indicated in the schedule. All existing teaching within the course can be subject for examination. Decisions on any deviations from the current form of assessment will be made by concerned Director of studies.

Grade for the course will be assigned when the written test and all mandatory elements are approved. The possible grades are 'Pass with distinction',' Pass' or 'Fail'. Students are entitled to rewrite the same examination five times. Students who do not pass the regular examination should be provided an opportunity for further examination according to the University's "Regulations for tests and examinations at the undergraduate and graduate levels." A student who has failed two tests for a course or a part of a course, is entitled to have another examiner appointed, unless there are specific reasons against it (HF 6 Chap. 22 §). Requests for new examiners are made to the head of the department of Psychology. Students have the right to be tested on the same curriculum as the regular examination at least two occasions up to two years after the first registration.

Deviations from the form of examination in the syllabus can be made for a student who has pedagogical support due to disabilities. Individual adjustments of the examination form is determined based on the student's needs. The examination form is adjusted within the framework of the expected learning outcomes of the syllabus. After a request from the student the study counselor shall, in consultation with the course coordinator and examiner, promptly decide on the adjusted form of examination. The decision is then to be announced to the student.