Introduction to Psychology - Health Psychology

A set of 80 flashcards covering key concepts from Health Psychology as outlined in the lecture notes.

Health Psychology

Focuses on psychology’s role in establishing and maintaining health and preventing and treating illness.

Biopsychosocial Model

Integration of biological, psychological, and social factors affecting health.

Mind-Body Connection

The interconnections between mental and physical health that can influence each other.

Theory of Reasoned Action

Change occurs when one has specific intentions, a positive attitude, and social approval for the behavior.

Theory of Planned Behavior

Extends the Theory of Reasoned Action by including perceptions of control over outcomes.

Stages of Change Model

A model outlining the process of giving up bad habits, consisting of multiple stages.

Precontemplation Stage

Not yet considering change or unaware of a problem.

Contemplation Stage

Acknowledging a problem but not ready to change yet.

Preparation Stage

Preparing to take action after recognizing a problem.

Action Stage

Committing to change and enacting a plan for it.

Maintenance Stage

Successful continuation of behavior change over time.

Relapse

A return to previous behaviors, common during the maintenance stage.

Intrinsic Motivation

Doing something because you want to, rather than for external rewards.

Extrinsic Motivation

Engaging in behavior for external rewards or recognition.

Social Support

Assistance from social relationships that contribute to effective life change.

Conscientiousness

A personality trait that includes responsibility and reliability.

Self-Efficacy

The belief in one’s ability to succeed in specific situations.

Optimism

Positive thinking and expectation about future outcomes.

Stress

A response to environmental stressors that can negatively affect health.

Alarm Stage

The body prepares for action in response to stress but may lose natural protections.

Resistance Stage

Body's immune activity restores, and inflammation is reduced under stress.

Exhaustion Stage

When wear and tear leads to increased vulnerability to disease.

Type A Behavior Pattern

Characterized by competitiveness, impatience, and high stress.

Type B Behavior Pattern

Relaxed and easy-going personality.

Type D Personality

A personality type marked by negative emotions and social inhibition.

Coping Strategies

Methods employed to manage stress, including problem-focused and emotion-focused coping.

Cognitive Appraisal

The process of evaluating a situation to determine if it’s harmful.

Positive Reappraisal

A coping strategy that involves reinterpreting a negative situation positively.

Stress Management Programs

Programs designed to teach individuals coping mechanisms and stress appraisal.

Physical Activity Recommendations

Adults should aim for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measure used to assess body weight relative to height.

Tobacco Use

The act of smoking or using tobacco, which has significant health risks.

Safe Sex Practices

Engaging in sexual activities that reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.

Social Isolation

Lack of social interaction, which is a significant predictor of mortality.

Motivation in Life Change

The driving force necessary for change throughout all stages of the process.

Implementation Intentions

Plans that specify how, when, and where a person will take action to achieve change.

Religious Faith

An aspect of life that can promote healthier lifestyle choices.

Personality Characteristics in Change

Traits that are useful for addressing personal changes such as responsibility and self-control.

Chronic Stress

Long-term stress that can lead to serious health consequences.

Acute Stress

Short-term stress that temporarily affects the body.

Stress & Immune System

Chronic stress negatively impacts immune system functioning.

Stress & Cardiovascular Disease

A significant link exists between chronic stress and heart-related issues.

Coping Mechanisms

Techniques individuals use to manage stress and its effects.

Health Behaviors

Actions that individuals take that can affect their physical well-being.

Relapse Prevention

Strategies to maintain behavior change and prevent returning to old habits.

Long-term Goals in Health Change

Setting goals for behavior maintenance over extended periods of time.

Support Systems

Network of friends and family that provide emotional and practical assistance.

Behavioral Change

A modification of habitual patterns to improve health and well-being.

Behavior Modification Programs

Structured approaches aimed at changing unhealthy behaviors.

Lifestyle Factors

Various behaviors that affect overall health, such as diet and exercise.

Health Psychology Principles

Fundamental concepts that guide understanding of health behaviors and outcomes.

Wellness

An active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life.

Nutritional Habits

Patterns of eating that contribute to overall health.

Exercise Regimens

Planned physical activities designed to improve health and fitness.

Preventative Health Measures

Actions taken to prevent illness and maintain health.

Comprehensive Health Approaches

Combining different methods and factors to promote health.

Affect Regulation

Managing emotional responses to stress and challenges.

Behavioral Intentions

An individual's plan to engage in a behavior that can lead to change.