Health Psychology - Chapter 1: Introduction & Aims

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the notes on the biomedical model, psychosocial challenges to that model, and the biopsychosocial approach in health psychology.

Biomedical model

A framework that explains illness primarily in biological terms, viewing the mind and body as separate and attributing illness to biological factors managed by medical professionals.

Mind-body dualism

The belief that the mind and body are distinct entities that influence illness independently of one another.

Psychosomatic medicine

A field showing that psychological factors can contribute to the development of physical illness, not just be a consequence of it.

Hysterical paralysis

Freud’s example of paralysis symptoms caused by psychological factors rather than organic pathology.

Behavioral medicine

An interdisciplinary field integrating behavioral sciences to prevent and treat illness, using methods like behavior therapy and behavior modification and challenging mind-body dualism.

Health psychology

The branch of psychology that studies how biological, psychological, and social factors influence health, illness, and healthcare, and applies theory to practice.

Direct pathway

A mechanism by which stress directly contributes to illness without intermediary behaviors.

Indirect pathway

A mechanism where stress leads to unhealthy behaviors (e.g., smoking) that in turn cause illness.

Biopsychosocial model

A model asserting that biological, psychological, and social factors all influence health and illness.

Illness onset

The stage in which beliefs and behaviors contribute to the development of illness.

Illness adaptation

The process of adjusting to illness, including help-seeking, pain management, social support, and illness beliefs.

Illness outcomes

Endpoints such as quality of life, longevity, and adherence to treatment.

Health as a continuum

The idea that health and illness exist on a spectrum rather than as discrete states.

Social cognition model

A theory framework explaining health behavior through social cognitive processes.

Stage model

A theory describing health behavior change in distinct stages.

Integrated model

A comprehensive framework that combines elements from multiple theories to explain health behavior.

Self-regulating model

A model describing how individuals regulate their beliefs and actions in response to health threats.

Diagnosis as decision making

The view that diagnosis involves decision-making processes by clinicians.

Transactional model of stress

A theory emphasizing the dynamic interaction between person and environment in the experience of stress.

Being ill: psychosocial model of pain

A framework that explains pain and illness through psychosocial factors and context.

Clinical health psychologist

A health psychologist trained in clinical psychology, focusing on assessment, treatment of distress, pain management, and rehabilitation.

Community health psychologist

A health psychologist who works at the community level, examining context, policies, access to care, and implementing/ evaluating interventions.

Academic health psychologist

A health psychologist focused on teaching and research, publishing work, and supervising students.

Ethical practice

Adherence to ethical standards in health psychology practice.

Health promotion sector

The sector aimed at promoting healthy behaviors and well-being.

Educational sector

The sector focused on health-related education and literacy.

Industrial sector

The sector applying health psychology in workplace and organizational settings.

Government policies

Public policies that influence health care access, delivery, and population health.

Access to health care

The availability and ease of obtaining medical services.

Evaluation research

Research assessing the effectiveness and impact of health interventions.

Quality of life

A measure of overall well-being and functioning in health contexts.

Longevity

The length or duration of an individual’s life.

Adherence

The extent to which patients follow prescribed medical regimens.

Stress and pain management

Techniques and interventions aimed at reducing stress and alleviating pain.

Rehabilitation

The process of restoring function and health in individuals with chronic illness or after injury.