PSYC 380 - Community Psychology and Public Health

This course will examine the inter-related fields of community psychology and public health psychology. These disciplines share a commitment to the promotion of well-being within a social and cultural context. We will explore theory, research, and praxis related to ecological analysis, empowerment models, prevention and health promotion, risk and resilience, and community organizing and activism. These conceptual tools will help us understand the complex processes underlying clinical psychopathology (e.g., serious and persistent mental illness), behavioral health (e.g., smoking; obesity; substance abuse), and symptoms of structural violence (e.g., domestic violence; homelessness). Throughout the course, we will focus on the unique contributions of psychological scholarship to understanding and improving population health. All students will participate in a civic engagement experience of at least two hours a week to foster fuller understanding of the course concepts. Student led component. UP3 course. Prerequisite(s):

PSYC 100

and

PSYC 201

(or

MATH 155

) OR two CGH-related courses drawn from Categories A and/or B. Offered every few years. (4 Credits)