Lectures will review and evaluate module content (15 hours). Interactive seminars/workshops will allow the opportunity to discuss and study specific issues in depth (12 hours). Both will be supported by independent study (270 hours), and by work in the purpose-built laboratory (3 hours).

At least a good second class (hons) degree in Psychology (GBR recognized) or equivalent.

CD-ROM and web based databases to review current relevant literature in electronic database format.
Internet access.
Thompson library, Resource rooms (Psychology and general in Mellor Building)
Computer terminals

Applications of social cognition models in health psychology. The role of the family in promoting health. Family adjustments and role of family members when significant medical conditions affect children, parents and older family members. Coping strategies and individual differences in family adjustments. Promoting health through positive body image, including increasing self esteem and perceptions of control, and building resistance to normalisation pressures. Effects of moderate exercise and healthy eating on body image, and prevention of drug use. Applications of cardiovascular psychophysiology. Interventions to facilitate recovery from myocardial infarctions. Neuropsychological evaluation of cardiac patients.

Allen R, Scheidt S (Eds) (1996). Heart & Mind: The Practice of Cardiac Psychology. Washington, American Psychological Association
Cash, T. & Pruzinsky, T. (1990) Body Images: Development, Deviance and Change. New York: Guilford Press.
Conner, M. & Sparks, P. (eds). 2002 (Sarah to check title)
Frank, R. G., Thayer, J. F., Hagglund, K. J., Vieth, A. Z., Schopp, L. H., Beck, N. C., Kashani, J. H., Goldstein, D. E., Cassidy, J. T., Clay, D. L., Chaney, J. M., Hewett, J. E., & Johnson, J. C. (1998). Trajectories of adaptation in pediatric chronic illness: The importance of the individual. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 66(3), 521-532.
Grogan, S. (1999) Body image: understanding body dissatisfaction in men, women and children. London: Routledge
Orth-Gomer K, Schneiderman N (Eds) (1996). Behavioral Medicine Approaches to Cardiovascular Disease Prevention. New Jersey, Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
Sabo, D. (1995) Men's Health and Illness: gender, power and the body. London: Sage.
Sarafino EP (2002). Health Psychology: Biopsychosocial Interactions. Chichester, John Wiley and Sons.
SeiffgeKrenke, I. (1998). Chronic disease and perceived developmental progression in adolescence. Developmental Psychology, 34(5), 1073-1084.
Wallender, J.L. and Varni, J.W. (1998) Effects of pediatric chronic physical disorders on child and family adjustment. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 39(1), 29-46.

Outcome 1 & 3

1. Poster Presentation (25%) covering one application of health psychology.

Outcome 1 & 2

2. Critical Review (75%) of evidence of the efficacy of one specific type of intervention with one client/patient group (5000 words).

Students will be required to gain a pass in all elements of assessment within the module.


Pass criteria
Grade Point 7-9
Work which demonstrates a sound awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Expressed reasonably and coherently. Work is academically sound, evidencing focused observations and acknowledging key questions. There is evidence of sound reading and thorough critical analysis of the available literature.

Merit criteria
Grade Point 10-12
Work which demonstrates a very good awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Expressed cogently and lucidly. Work is of good quality academically, evidencing well-focused observations and addressing all of the obvious key questions. There is evidence of sound reading and a thorough critical analysis of the available literature, leading to an output which may have potential for wider use.

Distinction criteria
Grade Point 13+
Work which demonstrates an excellent awareness and understanding of the subject matter. Well argued and excellently organised. Work is academically excellent, evidencing perceptiveness, insight and demonstrating creativity and originality. There is evidence of excellent reading and systematic review.