Module Description
This module will explore contemporary topics in health psychology and focus on the link between research evidence and the application of Health Psychology to sport and exercise. The module will provide you with an understanding of up-to-date research evidence across a number of topics including the relationship between exercise and esteem, using exercise as an intervention to ameliorate psychological illness and behaviour change theories. You will develop your ability to critically evaluate the evidence-base in these topics through interactive seminars. You will gain an understanding of how this knowledge can inform our understanding of the individual including the development of interventions based on the application of scientific principles.
Aims
The aim of this module is to develop your ability to critically evaluate research evidence and your understanding of how this evidence can inform applied health psychology.
Learning Outcomes
1. Critically evaluate the relationship between physical activity and mental health
2. Discuss various theories and models of mental health and psychological well-being
3. Discuss and critically appraise various theories and models concerned with the putative relationship between physical activity and mental health
4. Demonstrate competence in the critical analysis of relevant experimental data and written communication.
Syllabus
Week Topic(s)
1 Introduction - Physical Activity Epidemiology; Measuring psychological outcomes
2 Behaviour Change
3 Motivation for participation
4 Affective responses during exercise
5 Body image issues and physical activity engagement
6 Eating disorders and exercise dependence
7 Social support for physical activity participation
8 Physical Environmental features to promote active lifestyles
9 Exercise as Medicine
10 Module review and assessment support
- Module Supervisor: Leanne Andrews