Health Psychology Overview

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a factor that the humoral theory considered important for maintaining health?

  • A balanced diet
  • A state of perfect equilibrium among four basic body fluids
  • The presence of a pathogenic microorganism (correct)
  • Mental and emotional well-being

What concept did René Descartes introduce that revolutionized understanding of the human body?

  • The concept of a human being as a machine (correct)
  • The idea that illness arises from an imbalance of humors
  • The belief that bacteria and viruses cause disease
  • The concept of Ayurveda

What is considered a defining factor of a chronic illness?

  • It is usually irreversible. (correct)
  • It is preventable with vaccination.
  • It has a short duration.
  • It is typically caused by infection.

Which of the following historical periods was characterized by a belief that illness was a punishment from God?

<p>The Middle Ages (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the sociocultural perspective in health psychology emphasize?

<p>The impact of social and cultural factors on health and disease. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the core belief of the germ theory of disease?

<p>Disease results from the invasion of the body by microorganisms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a key element of socioeconomic status (SES)?

<p>Ethnicity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of psychosomatic medicine?

<p>Understanding and treating physical illnesses believed to be caused by psychological factors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between sex and gender?

<p>Sex is biological while gender is socially constructed. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of reductionism as it relates to the biomedical model of health?

<p>The assumption that a single primary factor underlies complex phenomena like diseases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following health behaviors is MEN more likely to engage in compared to women?

<p>Engaging in risky competitive sports. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the core idea behind the ecological-systems approach in the biopsychosocial model?

<p>Systems at different levels interact and influence each other. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of health psychology, what is meant by 'multifactorial' diseases?

<p>Diseases that arise from the complex interaction of various factors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of a birth cohort influence our understanding of health?

<p>Shared experiences can shape the health vulnerabilities of a generation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'conversion disorders' as understood in the context of psychosomatic medicine?

<p>Illnesses that have no clear physical cause but are believed to be linked to psychological factors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a primary area of focus for health psychology?

<p>Studying the causes of specific microorganisms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for healthcare professionals to understand the biopsychosocial model?

<p>To provide a more holistic and effective approach to patient care. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key role of health psychologists as researchers?

<p>Identifying the biopsychosocial factors contributing to health and illness. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of Franz Alexander's work in the development of psychosomatic medicine?

<p>He argued that psychological conflicts could lead to specific physical illnesses (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the biomedical model of health?

<p>Recognizing the influence of psychological factors on health (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can understanding the biopsychosocial model help prevent certain illnesses?

<p>By addressing the interplay of various factors contributing to illness. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of an acute disorder?

<p>It is caused by infection and spreads quickly. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of health psychology, what is the primary critique of the biomedical model of health?

<p>It disregards the role of the mind in health and illness (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following historical events marked a shift towards a more scientific and rational understanding of disease?

<p>The Renaissance (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant contribution of health psychologists during pandemics like COVID-19?

<p>Promoting vaccine acceptance and adherence to safety protocols. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a common area of practice for health psychologists?

<p>Providing therapy to individuals with mental disorders. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following concepts aligns with the idea that an individual's psychological state can significantly influence their physical health?

<p>Psychosomatic medicine (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best reflects Freud's contribution to the understanding of health psychology?

<p>He argued that unconscious emotional conflicts could manifest as physical symptoms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do sociocultural forces play a role in health-related beliefs and behaviors?

<p>They shape cultural norms, beliefs, and values that impact health choices. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason why an individual might lack health insurance in the United States?

<p>Inability to meet employer requirements (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the role of occupational health psychologists?

<p>They address the health of people in the workplace and promote employee well-being. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The PPACA (Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act) was primarily enacted to address which of the following issues?

<p>Reduce the number of uninsured people in the United States (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of understanding the biopsychosocial model in health psychology?

<p>It provides a more holistic view of health by considering multiple interacting factors. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of health psychology?

<p>Applying psychological principles to health enhancement and illness prevention (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which group tends to experience better health outcomes?

<p>Urban dwellers from ethnic majorities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the overarching goals of Healthy People 2030?

<p>Create conditions that foster good health for everyone (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic group faces unique health challenges according to the content?

<p>Women and LGBT individuals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of health is highlighted as a significant contributor to disparities?

<p>Biological factors such as inherited diseases (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why does the United States rank low in life expectancy despite high healthcare spending?

<p>Unequal access to healthcare services (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about health benefits?

<p>Everyone has equal health opportunities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the life expectancy of white people in America compare to that of black people?

<p>White people have a longer life expectancy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the biopsychosocial model emphasize in understanding health?

<p>The interaction of biological, psychological, and sociocultural forces (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key goal of health psychology?

<p>To promote health-enhancing behaviors (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the life-course perspective address health and illness?

<p>It involves understanding the impact of parental health behaviors on child development (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does psychological appraisal play in coping with stress?

<p>It affects how overwhelming an event is perceived (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most strongly influences the effectiveness of health care interventions?

<p>A patient’s attitude and belief system (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which genetic phenomenon emphasizes how environmental factors can affect gene expression?

<p>Epigenetics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a psychological factor influencing health?

<p>Optimism and hardiness (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can negative life events affect health according to the content?

<p>They have been linked to decreased immune functioning (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the evolutionary perspective highlight about human traits and behaviors?

<p>Human traits exist due to their role in survival and reproduction (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which element is NOT considered a host factor in the context of health and disease?

<p>Exposure to hazardous chemicals (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of health psychology regarding health-compromising behaviors?

<p>To understand the psychological and social reasons for such behaviors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an epigenetic factor?

<p>The impact of childhood nurturing on gene expression (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main role of health psychologists concerning public health policy?

<p>To consult with government leaders on improving health care systems (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Health Psychology

The study applying psychological principles to health and illness prevention.

Health Disparities

Differences in health outcomes among different populations.

Life Expectancy

The average number of years a person is expected to live.

Chronic Diseases

Long-lasting health conditions, like diabetes and cancer.

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Healthy People 2030

A U.S. initiative to improve health outcomes and eliminate disparities.

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Social Determinants of Health

Conditions in which people are born and live that affect health.

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Health Equity

The pursuit of equal opportunity for health outcomes across groups.

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Gender Health Challenges

Unique health issues faced by women and gender minorities.

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Birth cohort

A group of people born within a few years of each other, influencing health experiences.

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Acute disorder

A short-term illness caused by infection and spread from person to person.

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Chronic illness

A long-lasting illness that is usually irreversible, such as heart disease or cancer.

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Sociocultural perspective

Focus on how social and cultural factors influence health and disease.

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Socioeconomic status (SES)

A measure based on income, education, and occupation affecting health outcomes.

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Gender perspective

Focus on gender-specific health behaviors and issues in health psychology.

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Health psychologists

Professionals who teach, research, and provide clinical services related to health.

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Biopsychosocial model

An approach emphasizing biological, psychological, and social factors affecting health.

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Occupational health psychologists

Specialists who work on health issues in the workplace.

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Community health psychologists

Psychologists who focus on the health of communities and geographical factors.

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Public health psychologists

Investigate public health policies and programs to reduce health disparities.

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Vaccine acceptance

Promoting willingness to receive vaccinations for health protection.

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Therapeutic interventions

Specific psychological techniques or treatments to promote health and well-being.

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Ecological-systems approach

Viewpoint that health is influenced by interconnected systems at multiple levels.

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Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA)

A federal law aimed at reducing the number of uninsured individuals and lowering healthcare costs in the US.

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Humoral Theory

Ancient concept asserting health is a balance of four body fluids: blood, yellow bile, black bile, and phlegm.

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Hippocrates

The father of Western medicine, known for advocating natural causes of disease.

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Ayurveda

The oldest-known medical system, emphasizing balance between the body and universe.

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Epidemic

A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a specific time.

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Pandemic

A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease across a whole country or the world.

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Mind-Body Dualism

The belief that the mind and body are distinct entities that interact minimally.

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Germ Theory

The theory that microorganisms cause diseases by invading body cells.

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Biomedical Model

The view that illness has a biological cause, dominant in modern medicine.

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Reductionism

The idea that complex phenomena can be explained by a single factor.

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Conversion Disorders

Illnesses with no physical explanation, believed to be caused by emotional conflicts.

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Psychosomatic Medicine

A field focusing on how psychological factors can cause physical diseases.

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Nuclear Conflict Model

A theory suggesting that specific physical diseases arise from fundamental psychological conflicts.

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Multifactorial Approach

The concept that diseases result from multiple interacting factors, not just one.

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Host Factors

Characteristics like genetics that affect health and vulnerability.

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Health Psychology Goals

Four aims: study disease origins, promote health, prevent illness, improve health policy.

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Genetic Makeup

The complete set of genetic instructions that defines an organism.

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Epigenetics

How environmental factors affect gene expression over time.

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Life-Course Perspective

Looks at how early life influences health across the lifespan.

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Subjective Well-being

Personal feelings of happiness and life satisfaction.

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Positive Psychology

Focuses on promoting happiness and well-being.

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Psychological Influences on Health

Mental factors that affect coping and treatment outcomes.

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Social Context

Influences of gender, community, and socioeconomic factors on health.

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Health-compromising Behaviors

Actions that negatively impact health, like smoking and poor diet.

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Public Health Policy

Government strategies to improve health care and education.

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Chronic Conditions Management

Strategies to treat ongoing health issues and improve patient outcomes.

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Stress and Immune Function

Negative life events can weaken immune response and increase illness risk.

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Natural Selection

Evolutionary process favoring traits that enhance survival and reproduction.

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Study Notes

Health Psychology

  • Health psychology applies psychological principles to improve health and prevent/treat illness.
  • Considers social factors (healthcare access, social support), biological factors (genetics), and personality traits (optimism).
  • The term "health" derives from an old German word meaning "soundness of body."
  • Health is not equally distributed; life expectancy varies significantly by country, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and gender.
  • Women typically experience higher disease and disability rates starting in middle age.
  • The US, despite high healthcare spending, ranks lower than many other countries in life expectancy, efficiency, and access to quality care.
  • Healthy People 2030 (US Dept of Health and Human Services) outlines goals to improve health access, reduce disparities, and promote healthy behaviors across all ages.

Health and Illness: Historical Perspectives

  • Healing practices date back 20,000 years.
  • Pre-industrial societies often relied on rituals, sorcery, and trephination.
  • Hippocrates challenged mystical beliefs, arguing for a natural explanation of disease.
  • Hippocrates' humoral theory connected health to the balance of bodily fluids (blood, yellow bile, black bile, phlegm).
  • Ayurveda, the oldest medical system, emphasizes balance between the body and the universe.
  • The Middle Ages viewed illness as divine punishment.
  • The Renaissance saw renewed anatomical study and Descartes' mechanistic view of the body.

From Post-Renaissance Rationality to the 19th Century

  • Physicians increasingly focused on biological causes of diseases.
  • Germ theory emerged, revolutionizing understanding of disease.
  • Microorganisms responsible for various illnesses were identified.

The Twentieth Century and the Dawn of a New Era

  • The biomedical model dominated, emphasizing biological causes of illness.
  • Reductionism and mind-body dualism were key aspects.
  • Psychosomatic medicine emerged.
  • Conversion disorders were recognized.
  • Franz Alexander linked psychological conflicts to specific illnesses.
  • Psychosomatic medicine investigated the interplay between mind and body.
  • Health psychology emerged as a field focused on etiology, promotion, prevention, and treatment of illness and health care improvement.

The Biopsychosocial Model

  • The biopsychosocial model emphasizes the interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors in health and illness.
  • Multiple factors influence health, not just biological ones.

Biological Context

  • Behaviours, health, and illness occur within a biological context.
  • Genetics significantly affect health and disease susceptibility.
  • Genomics (study of genomes) advances improving healthcare based on genetic predispositions and family history.
  • Evolutionary perspective emphasizes natural selection and gene-environment interactions.
  • Epigenetics explores the impact of environmental factors on gene expression.
  • Life-course perspective examines age-related aspects of health and disease.

Psychological Context

  • Psychological factors influence health and illness significantly.
  • Appraisal (interpretation) of events impacts stress response.
  • Subjective well-being (happiness and satisfaction) is important.
  • Psychological interventions can improve treatment effectiveness.
  • Stress and negative life events can negatively affect immune function.

Social Context

  • Social factors (gender, socioeconomic status, culture) impact health profoundly.
  • Sociocultural factors influence health beliefs and behaviours.
  • Health disparities exist based on ethnicity and socioeconomic status.
  • Gender-specific health behaviours and issues are significant.

Frequently Asked Questions About Health Psychology

  • Health psychologists work as teachers, researchers, and clinicians.
  • They utilize biopsychosocial approaches to address health promotion and illness treatment.
  • Careers in occupational and community health psychology are available.
  • They are contributing to public health issues such as pandemics.
  • Training for health psychologists requires advanced degrees.

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