Module Details

Module Code: n/a
Full Title: Health Psychology & Behaviour Change
Valid From:: Semester 1 - 2023/24 ( September 2023 )
Language of Instruction:English
Duration: 1 Semester
Credits:: 5
Module Owner::
  • Rowan Kearns
  • Amanda Kearns
Departments: Life and Health Sciences
Module Description: This module delves into contemporary research in health psychology, covering both traditional mainstream approaches and newly emerging studies. A series of evidence-based case studies will equip students with an understanding of health policy, various theories of behaviour change, and how these can be applied in practice. Students will design a health promotion process grounded in a theory of their choice.
 
Module Learning Outcome
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Module Learning Outcome Description
MLO1 Outline the psychological determinants of health and disease and recognise theories of behaviour change.
MLO2 Distinguish between a variety of psychological assessment tools to assess symptoms of health conditions.
MLO3 Assess a range of Health Psychology interventions, analysing the social processes in behaviour change, using examples.
MLO4 Design a theory-driven nutrition intervention process and evaluate use of appropriate communication.
MLO5 Work effectively both independently and within a group.
Pre-requisite learning
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named DkIT module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
No recommendations listed
 
Module Indicative Content
Health Psychology and Behaviour Change Principles.
Introduction to the fundamental principles of health psychology and its application in nutrition practice, including the impact of psychological factors that influence dietary choices and behaviours. A broad view on behaviour change across the scope of the module, to include individual level, clinical intervention, national-level regulation and legislation, and signposting tools for community support services.
Psychological Determinants of Health
An overview of the interaction of biological, psychosocial, behavioural, and environmental factors that contribute to health-related outcomes and disease status. Psychological Factors Influencing Nutrition Behaviors - Cognitive processes in decision-making and food choices - Emotional and psychological factors influencing eating behaviors, such as motivation, self-efficacy, attitudes and beliefs - Social and environmental influences on dietary habits
Behaviour Change Models
Examine the health psychology literature and common theories of behaviour such as The Health Belief Model, Social Cognitive Theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour. Explore the relevance and application of evidence-based models to nutrition interventions that aim to facilitate behaviour change in dietary habits.
Individual Differences and Perspectives in Health Psychology
Preconceptions about healthy and unhealthy behaviour. Genetics. Gender differences. Personality. Psychosocial assessment tools to identify psychological barriers and facilitators of behavior change in clients.
Socio-Cultural Perspectives in Health Psychology
Social, Ethnic and Cultural considerations including family perspectives, social norms and attributes. Social capital and relationships. Risk Communicaton: Exploring the social process by which people become informed about hazards, are influenced towards behaviour change and can participate in decision-making about risk issues.
Overcoming Barriers to Behaviour Change
Strategies for overcoming barriers through problem-solving and self-regulation. Addressing ambivalence and resistance in clients. Techniques to assess readiness and motivation for change. Motivational interviewing principles and strategies. Goal-setting techniques and action planning.
Methods in Intervention Development
Explore Public Health campaign case studies based on contemporary models such as Transtheoretical (Stages of Change) Model, Diffusion of Innovation. Behaviour Change Wheel methodology of Health Promotion intervention development. The application of the COM-B framework to a range of target behaviours and behavioural barriers.
Applying Theory to Practice
Apply behavior change models and techniques to promote healthy eating habits and lifestyle modifications among clients, considering their unique psychosocial and cultural contexts. Design and implement behaviour change intervention tailored to the specific needs and preferences of clients, incorporating psychological strategies, goal setting, self-monitoring, and positive reinforcement.
Issues & Developments in Research and Practice
Policy Approaches in Behaviour Change and exploring research implications. Exploring Digital trends and Artificial Intelligence developments through research and industry.
Module Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Course Work100.00%
Module Special Regulation
 

Assessments

Full-time

Course Work
Assessment Type Class Test % of Total Mark 50
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing n/a Learning Outcome 1,2,3
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
Class Test to include multiple choice questions, case study and reflective practice.
Assessment Type Continuous Assessment % of Total Mark 50
Marks Out Of 0 Pass Mark 0
Timing S1 Week 11 Learning Outcome 1,4,5
Duration in minutes 0
Assessment Description
Plan the design, delivery and evaluation of an intervention based on a chosen theoretical behaviour change model.
No Project
No Practical
No Final Examination

DKIT reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full-time
Workload Type Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact No Description Every Week 2.00 2
Tutorial Contact No Description Every Week 1.00 1
Directed Reading Non Contact No Description Every Week 3.00 3
Independent Study Non Contact No Description Every Week 2.00 2
Total Weekly Learner Workload 8.00
Total Weekly Contact Hours 3.00
This module has no Part-time workload.
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Erica Cook, Lynne Wood. (2021), Health Psychology, Routledge, London, [ISBN: 9781138213692].
Recommended Article/Paper Resources
  • Evidence-based case studies and Journal articles reviewed throughout classes.
Other Resources