Psychological Influences on Physical Health — Stress, Immune Function, and Behavioral Medicine Explained | Chapter 7 of Essentials of Abnormal Psychology

Health psychology examines how psychological and social factors influence physical well-being. Chapter 7 of Essentials of Abnormal Psychology delves into stress physiology, psychoneuroimmunology, psychosocial contributors to disease, and evidence-based behavioral medicine interventions. This summary will guide your understanding of how stress responses, immune function, and psychosocial treatments shape outcomes in cardiovascular disease, chronic pain, cancer, and more.

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Stress and Health: From GAS to Self-Efficacy

Stress activates the body’s General Adaptation Syndrome (GAS), a three-stage response proposed by Hans Selye: alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. Chronic activation of the HPA axis leads to elevated cortisol, which impairs immune function, increases inflammation, and damages brain regions like the hippocampus. Developing self-efficacy—confidence in one’s ability to cope—enhances resilience and mitigates the harmful effects of stress.

Psychoneuroimmunology: Mind–Body Interactions

Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) studies how psychological factors affect the immune system. Chronic stress and negative emotional states reduce immune responses, making individuals more susceptible to infections, autoimmune diseases, and even cancer progression. Understanding PNI highlights the importance of stress management and emotional regulation in preventive health.

Psychosocial Factors in Medical Conditions

Several psychosocial factors play key roles in physical disorders:

• AIDS: Stress management interventions and social support can slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
• Cancer: Coping strategies and strong social connections in psychoncology are linked to better survival outcomes.
• Cardiovascular Disease: Hypertension and coronary heart disease are influenced by chronic stress, anger, hostility, and Type A behavior patterns.
• Chronic Pain: The Gate Control Theory explains how psychological and social factors modulate pain perception, with endogenous opioids (endorphins) helping to regulate pain signals.

Behavioral Medicine and Psychosocial Treatments

Behavioral medicine integrates psychological techniques into medical care:

• Biofeedback: Uses monitoring devices to teach patients control over physiological functions like heart rate and muscle tension.
• Relaxation & Meditation: Progressive muscle relaxation and mindfulness-based stress reduction lower cortisol levels and support immune function.
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Modifies negative thought patterns and behaviors, improving outcomes in chronic illness and pain management.

Conclusion: A Holistic Health Perspective

Chapter 7 emphasizes that effective health interventions must address biological, psychological, and social dimensions. By understanding stress mechanisms, mind-body interactions, and behavioral treatments, clinicians can develop comprehensive strategies for disease prevention and management. Master these concepts to excel in exams and apply holistic approaches in practice.

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