Behavioral and Social Aspects of Public Health

Catalog description

This course gives students an introduction to behavioral and social science theory in public research and practice. This course exposes students to a broad range of theories and frameworks commonly employed in the public health arena and applicable to other health professions (e.g., medicine, nursing, social work). Health behavior theories help researchers, practitioners and participants identify targets and opportunities for change and methods for accomplishing it. These theories are discussed using examples of their applications to numerous public health problems including HIV/AIDS, material and child health, violence, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, and global health. In addition, this course emphasizes developing strong scientific literacy and skills to interpret empirical evidence in the context of research methods.