Health Psychology Health - State of complete physical, psychological, and social well-being Health Psychology - Application of psychological principles and research to the enhancement of health and the prevention and treatment of illness. Health Disparities - The United States ranks worst among 11 wealthy nations as measured by life expectancy, efficiency, and accessibility to quality health care by all individuals. o Ethnic majorities in cities have a higher life expectancy; rural, disadvantaged minorities have a lower one. o People with European ancestry live longer than African Americans; life expectancy is shorter for both these groups than for those in many other countries. o Unique health challenges face women, LGBT people, and other marginalized people. o Higher disease and disability rates for middle-aged women than for middle-aged men. Identification of Actions and Targets for Improving Health Services (part 1) - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services report Healthy People 2030 identifies specific actions and targets o Improving access to health services o Eliminating health disparities o Reducing chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes o Improving health in people of all ages o Preventing injuries and violence o Taking steps in 32 other areas Part 2 - Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) o Aims of this federal law Reduce the number of people in the United States who do not have health insurance. Lower the costs of healthcare Improve health care outcomes Streamline the delivery of healthcare Require insurers to cover certain types of preventive care at no cost to the consumer. Overall Goals and Targets of Healthy People 2030 Health Psychology - Attain high-quality, longer lives free of preventable disease, disability, injury, and premature death. Achieve health equity, eliminate disparities, and improve the health of all groups. Create social and physical environments that promote good health for all Promote quality of life, health development, and healthy behaviors across all life stages Health and Illness: Lessons from the Past Timeline of Historical and cultural variations in Illness and healing - Ancient China o Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM); internal harmony essential for good health Qi – vital energy or life force Acupuncture, herbal therapy, meditation - Ancient India o Ayurveda – oldest known medical system (same time as Buddha) The body represents the entire universe; the balance between the microcosmic and macrocosmic world; tridosha - Emergence of Health Psychology o 1978: The American Psychological Association (APA) establishes the division of health psychology (Division 38) - Four goals of the New Field Biological Context - Every thought, mood, and urge is a biological event made possible because of the characteristic anatomical structure and biological function of a person’s body. o Genome o Genomics Evolutionary Perspective - Adaptation and reproductive success drive trait and behavior development - Biology and behavior do not occur in a vacuum; they constantly interact Psychological Context - Health and Illness subject to psychological influences o Appraisal and interpretation of stressful experiences o Attitude and treatment effectiveness o Psychological interventions - Positive psychology o Many studies have emphasized subjective well-being and a sense of satisfaction with life. The Biopsychosocial Model - Social Context Health Psychology - - o Ways people think about, influence, and relate to one another and the environment Birth cohort o Group of people born at about the same time who experience similar historical and social conditions Health o Acute disorders o Chronic illnesses
