Health Psychology: Signs vs Symptoms, Health Definition, and Goals

Flashcards covering the distinction between signs and symptoms, a modern definition of health, the wellness concept, and the four goals of health psychology, with practical examples.

What is a sign in a medical assessment?

An objective, observable indicator of health that can be seen or measured from the outside.

What is a symptom in a medical assessment?

A subjective indicator of health experienced by the patient and reported to others.

How do signs differ from symptoms in terms of perspective?

Signs are observed externally; symptoms are reported by the patient.

True or False: Chest pain is an observable sign.

False; chest pain is a symptom because it is subjective and reported by the patient.

How is health defined in this course beyond absence of disease?

A complete state of physical, mental, and social well-being.

What term is often used to describe the complete state of health?

Wellness.

What core influences on health are highlighted in health psychology?

Biological, psychological, and social factors.

What are the four goals of health psychology?

(1) Promote and maintain health; (2) Prevent and treat illness; (3) Understand factors influencing health; (4) Analyze and improve health care systems and policies.

Give an example of promoting and maintaining health in health psychology.

School-based health education and media campaigns to encourage healthy behaviors.

Give an example of prevention and treatment of illness in health psychology.

Stress management interventions for high-stress workers to reduce illness and help those who are ill.

Give an example of studying factors that influence health.

Examining socioeconomic status, social support, and lifestyle factors like smoking and drinking.

Give an example of analyzing and improving health care systems and policies.

Evaluating pharmacy consultation processes and creating dedicated consultation spaces to reduce stigma and improve access.

Name a few published findings that challenge the simple sign/symptom view of health.

Examples include: some people get sick after cold exposure while others do not; married men live longer; chronic stress increases heart attack risk; women have more illnesses but live longer; religious/spiritual practices tend to benefit health.