Health Psychology

Catherine A. Sanderson presents Health Psychology: Understanding the Mind-Body Connection, 4th Edition, an undergraduate textbook focused on how biological, psychological, and social factors influence human health and illness. Published by SAGE Publications, Inc., this volume guides college students through the interaction between physical systems and mental processes.

The content details how psychological stress alters physiological function. Sustained environmental stress impairs immune defenses, increasing susceptibility to chronic conditions. For instance, empirical research indicates that adults getting under six hours of nightly sleep are over four times more likely to contract a cold following viral exposure than individuals sleeping over seven hours. In contrast, positive personality traits such as optimism correlate with lower rates of illness and extended longevity.

Additionally, the work outlines professional training pathways and career options within health psychology. It provides structured academic coverage tailored for college courses examining behavioral science and medicine.