Introduction to Psychology and Health Behavior

These flashcards cover key concepts related to psychology, mental health, behavior models, and important definitions in health behavior.

Psychology

The scientific study of behavior and mental processes, encompassing both animal and human behaviors.

Psychiatry

A branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.

Systematic Method

A structured approach used in psychology to ask and answer questions about behavior systematically.

Hypothesis

An educated guess or prediction about the expected outcome of a study concerning a phenomenon.

Theory

A complex explanation based on findings from a large number of experimental studies, which can evolve with new data.

Functionalism

A psychological approach focusing on how mental activities help an organism adapt to its environment.

Structuralism

A school of thought in psychology that aimed to understand the structure of the mind through introspection.

Gestalt Psychology

An approach suggesting that perception is more than the sum of its parts, emphasizing whole patterns.

Health Behavior

Actions individuals undertake to maintain or improve their health, including preventative measures.

Health Beliefs Model

A framework identifying factors that influence patients' beliefs about disease risks and treatment benefits.

Transtheoretical Model (TTM)

A model describing stages of change individuals undergo when modifying behavior related to health.

Compliance

The extent to which a patient follows medical advice and instructions as given by a healthcare provider.

Adherence

The degree to which a patient’s behavior aligns with medical advice, focusing on patient-centered care.

Illness behavior

The actions and interpretations undertaken by individuals who feel ill, in response to their symptoms.

Preventative Health Behavior

Activities taken by individuals believing themselves to be healthy to enhance health or prevent disease.