Behavioural Medicine
Objectives
1) To learn the basics of psychology and behavioural sciences as related to medical
practice in the clinical and public health fields. Attention is given to the
psychosocial determinants of health, and the behavioural dynamics of health
promotion or adaptation to illness. Using biopsychosocial approaches, the
student will understand how the person copes with different health and disease
contexts, throughout the life cycle and acknowledging family, occupational and
sociocultural systems.
2) To develop empathic attitudes and recognize emotional aspects of the doctor-
patient relationship, acquiring basic communication skills in clinical
interviewing or health communication contexts.
3) To apply Behavioural Medicine evidence-based knowledge into specific clinical
situations, practicing written and oral presentation skills.
This curricular unit aims to bridge gaps between e.g., Introduction to Clinical
Practice and clinical disciplines like Psychiatry, Mental Health or Family Practice.
General characterization
Code
107038
Credits
4
Responsible teacher
Manuel Maria dos Santos Matroco Gonçalves Pereira,ANA CRISTINA APOLINARIO MARTINS,SUSANA ISABEL MATEUS SANTOS
Hours
Weekly - Available soon
Total - 112
Teaching language
PT
Prerequisites
Available soon
Bibliography
Available soon
Teaching method
The core theory contents integrate the Moodle e-learning course (texts, videos, and
exercises, in sequence), to be completed by students. Additional support is provided
in residential sessions, lectures (case-based discussions) and seminars (most often
with experts in particular fields), but also synchronous online seminars (guiding the
exploration of course materials). Attendance is voluntary.
Theoretical-practical classes (TP) focus on knowledge application, by discussing
clinical vignettes, and monitor progress on the e-learning and a written essay.
Practical classes (P) focus on communication training, using clinical simulation,
role-play, and feedback. Attendance is mandatory.
Evaluation method
Evaluation: 1) continuous evaluation (TP/P; mostly regards the discussion of a
written essay, and communication skills, but also attitudes ¿ 50% of the final grade);
2) final examinations (written or oral ¿ 50% of the final grade). Students must pass
both components; final approval will be granted with 9.45/20 in total.
Subject matter
1. Psychology and Behavioural Sciences in Medicine. Models of mental functioning
(e.g., neurobiological, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, systemic,
biopsychosocial). 2. Learning, cognition, motivation, emotions and personality in
clinical contexts and public health. 3. Human development and the life cycle. 4.
Stress, appraisal, coping and health (e.g., stress and burnout in Medicine). 5. Health
and illness behaviours. Body-mind interactions (e.g., chronic pain). Placebo effects.
6. Adaptation to illness and healthcare. Aspects of palliative care. Death and grief. 7.
Health and disease in families: circular relationships (e.g., impact on the family,
family factors influencing prognosis). 8. Sociocultural contexts of health and disease.
9. Psychological aspects of e.g., cardiovascular diseases. 10. Clinical communication
and doctor-patient relationships. Managing particular or difficult situations,
breaking bad news. Adherence. Motivational interviewing and behavioural change.