Health Psychology [Therories]

Biopsychosocial model

Holistic health approach considering biological, psychological, and social factors. A response to the overly reductionist medical model.

Diathesis-Stress Model

Interactionist theory stating genetic predisposition is "activated" by life stress, leading to behaviors like overeating and obesity.

General Adaptation Syndrome

The immune system’s response to stress in three stages—alarm, resistance, and exhaustion—explaining how chronic stress damages health.

Health belief model

Explains and predicts health behaviors by analyzing attitudes and beliefs.

Social self-preservation theory

Stress model where threats to self-esteem trigger cortisol release and increase stress-related health issues.

Theory of planned behavior

Health behaviors depend on attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived self-efficacy.

Vulnerability theory

Some individuals are more susceptible to stress due to genetic, cognitive, or environmental risk factors, making them prone to health problems.