This thenmatic area has a module which explores the vital role of psychology in health promotion, chronic disease prevention, patient care, and behavioral change. It focuses on both theoretical foundations and practical applications of psychological principles in clinical and community health settings.
Course Content Includes:
Health Behavior Theories: Exploration of prevailing psychological theories related to health behaviors, including the Health Belief Model, Theory of Planned Behavior, and Transtheoretical Model (Stages of Change).
Patient–Healthcare Provider Communication: Skills for effective engagement and communication, active listening, and empathy-building in clinical interactions.
Emotional Intelligence and Support: Recognition of patient emotions and stressors, and the application of supportive techniques to enhance mental resilience and trust.
Motivational Interviewing & Behavior Change: Training in evidence-based counseling methods aimed at guiding patients through ambivalence toward lasting behavioral change, emphasizing self-efficacy and autonomy.
Self-regulation and Psychological Skills for Health Maintenance:
Goal setting, self-monitoring, and relapse prevention
Building self-esteem and self-determination in health contexts
Psychological benefits of exercise and lifestyle change
Exercise Psychology: The psychological dimension of physical activity, particularly in individuals with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Experiential Learning: Role-playing exercises and interactive seminars to simulate real-world scenarios, enhance empathy, and practice intervention techniques.
Combating Addictions: Understanding addiction from a psychological and socio-economic perspective, and applying personalized strategies for prevention and treatment.
Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to:
Demonstrate deep knowledge of human behavior, emotional functioning, and psychological mechanisms influencing health and disease.
Understand and apply a wide range of psychological theories and intervention strategies to support patients across different health contexts.
Use motivational interviewing and other psychological tools to assist individuals in adopting and maintaining healthy behaviors.
Design and implement behavioral interventions tailored to patients with chronic conditions or vulnerable psychological profiles.
Propose targeted strategies for addressing psychological problems and addictions, considering each patient’s individual psychological and social background.
Contribute to interdisciplinary healthcare teams by providing psychological insights and enhancing patient-centered care.
Teaching and Learning Methods:
Delivery: Onsite lectures and remote learning options
Methods: Theoretical instruction, experiential seminars, group discussions, and role-play exercises
Teaching Organization: Weekly modules supported by practical workshops and guided readings
Student Evaluation: Written examinations and assessment of participation in role-playing and interactive components