Public Health Theories & Frameworks

Catalog description

This introductory course is intended to provide students with a foundation in behavioral and social science theory in the context of public health research, policy, and practice. The content of this course will provide exposure to a broad range of theories and frameworks commonly employed in the field of public health for understanding health behaviors. These theories will be discussed using examples of their applications to numerous public health problems including, but not limited to: tobacco use, exercise, obesity, HIV/AIDS, violence, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, environmental hazards, COVID-19, and global health. Importantly, in order to consider the value and application of the theories and frameworks to these various health behaviors, this class also encourages students to critically consider the role of larger structural influences such as racism and other forms of discrimination on health behaviors.