Entry requirements

First-cycle programmes of at least 180 credits (within care related fields. After individual review also open for applicant with older professional qualification, however at least 135 credits, and with experience in the area.

Learning outcomes

The general aim of the course is that the students acquire a theoretical knowledge within behavioural medicine. The course should also prepare for implementation of behavioural medicine strategies with the aim to support health-related behavioural change in patients.

KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING

After completed course, the student should be able to:

1. Describe how health-related behaviours are established and maintained based on the theories that constitute the basis for the behavioural medicine knowledge field

2. Account for individual and environmental factors which, according to current evidence, are of significance for health-related behavioural change

3. Describe the fundamental features in a clinical, educational model for guidance of patients in need of health-related behavioural change

SKILLS AND ABILITY

After completed course, the student should be able to:

4. Produce individually adjusted working material based on motivation strengthening and self-regulating strategies

5. Establish an action plan for change of own working method

EVALUATION ABILITY AND ATTITUDES

After completed course, the student should be able to:

6. Reflect on individual-specific preventing and facilitating factors in health-related behavioural change

7. Observe ethical aspects when guiding patients in need of health-related behavioural change

8. Identify own need of continued professional development and guidance within behavioural medicine

Content

Theories and models for establishment of health-related behaviours. Evidence-based determinants for health-related behaviours. Own work with delimited, well-defined health-related behavioural change. Educational working model for guidance of patients in need of health-related behavioural change.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars, web-based group discussions, home assignments.

Assessment

Compulsory attendance at seminars

Passed in writing presented home assignment that examines aim 1

Passed orally presented group assignments that examine aim 1 2, 3

Passed orally presented home assignment that examines aim 4 6

Passed in writing presented literature log that examines aim 1 2, 3, 6, 7

Passed oral presentation that examines aim 5 8