Health Psychology Introduction

PPT 13

what is health?

a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being; not simply the absence of disease or infirmity

what does the biopsychosocial model of health psychology state?

health can be influenced by a number of factors, including biology, sociality, and psychology. all of these affect quality of life and morality

how does social interaction impact heart disease according to rosengren (2004)?

low social integration and emotional attachment were linked to poor coronary health, independently of other risk factors

how does social interaction impact likelihood of common cold according to cohen (1997)?

people with more social ties are more susceptible to the common cold, however tend to have greater resistance to upper respiratory illness

what does the main effect model of health psychology propose?

social resources have a beneficial respect whether a person is under stress or not- they provide regular positive experience and stability

what does the buffer model of social psychology propose?

social support may act as a buffer to stress, but has no impact on our health when we are not under stress

what are the four types of social support?

• EMOTIONAL support: love, empathy, listening

• INSTRUMENTAL support: tangible services such as money or transport

• INFORMATIONAL support: guidance and advice

• ESTEEM: promotion of skills and abilities

how does friendship impact health?

• improves mental health

• encourages habits which promote good health (especially in older people)

• in young people may encourage detrimental habits ie. smoking

how does marriage impact health?

• increased life expectancy

• encourages positive lifestyle behaviours (especially in men)

how do poor quality relationships impact health? (3)

• cause of stress

• cause of depression

• associated with compromised immune systems