health psychology

n. Health psychology is a field of psychology that focuses on health, illness, and health care. Health psychologists use psychological theory and research to understand and promote health and to prevent and treat illness. Health psychologists recognize that health and illness are influenced by many factors, such as behavioral, cognitive, emotional, social, environmental, and biological factors. Knowledge from health psychology can be used to help individuals of all ages develop and maintain healthy habits, reduce stress, and cope with illness. On a broader scale, knowledge from health psychology can be used to improve health care delivery and policy.       

- SD-B