The branch of psychology focused on how psychological factors influence health, illness, and health-related behaviors.
From Old English 'hælth' (wholeness, well-being) + Greek 'psychologia.' Psychology applied to health and well-being.
Health psychology connects mind and body — it studies how stress, behavior, and beliefs affect your physical health, and how to build healthier habits.
Health psychology (1970s-present) has historically underestimated women's health concerns and pain; research on cardiovascular disease, ADHD, and autoimmune conditions centered male presentations, delaying female diagnosis. Women's health behaviors were often framed as 'compliance' rather than agency.
Use 'health psychology' but ensure health interventions and research are disaggregated by gender. Recognize gender shapes health beliefs, symptom recognition, and healthcare access.
["gender-informed health psychology","health equity psychology"]
Health psychologists like Barbara Rosenfield and women's health researchers have documented how gender bias in medicine (including psychology's role) causes harm; their work centers patient expertise and systemic change.
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