This course critically explores the field of clinical health psychology. Students will explore an evidence base of theory and research in order to understand how the practice (theory, methods and interventions) of clinical health psychology can reduce distress and enhance the psychological and physical wellbeing of individuals.

Lectures - one hour sessions for 11 weeks plus three one hour smaller group seminars

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Assessment

2000 written assignment. Full details about assessment will be included in course handbook.

The aims of this course are to:

- To critically explore the concepts of health and wellbeing as they apply to issues of mental and physical illness

- Develop a critical awareness of the dimensions of normality, health-illness

- To appreciate the historical, moral and societal influences inherent in these dimensions.

- Promote a critical understanding of the main theoretical models involved in assessment and intervention

- Develop a critical awareness of purpose and scope of the professional practice of Clinical and Health Psychology.

- Promote understanding of psychological therapies and how these relate to the different theoretical models

- To highlight some relevant research methods suited to the study of clinical health psychology and to critically engage with these.

- Explore the functions of assessment, formulation and diagnosis and the implications for research and intervention inherent in these.

By the end of this course students will be able to:

1. Reflect critically on issues related to the concept of health and wellbeing in the context of mental and physical illness

2. Describe and evaluate historical and contemporary theoretical models in clinical health psychology

3. Critically discuss ways in which psychological theory and research in this area has informed professional practice

4. To identify the ethical issues as they relate to research and practice in Clinical Health Psychology

5. Critically evaluate a range of psychological interventions and methods of assessment (diagnosis and formulation) relevant to clinical health psychology.

6. Critically explore and evaluate the use of online mental health and wellbeing applications.

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