Module Code - Title:
SS6001
-
APPLIED EXERCISE AND HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY
Year Last Offered:
2018/9
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
Physical inactivity is recognized as a lifestyle that carries considerable risks for poor health. The challenge of increasing the level of physical activity in the population requires an understanding of individual and situational factors, which inhibit regular activity. The aim of this module is to provide students with current knowledge and a sound understanding of psychological issues pertaining to exercise and physical activity behaviour.
Syllabus:
This module will deal with the psychological theory and practice of increasing physical activity. Finally, the psychological benefits of physical activity are important health benefits which will be explored in this module. The antecedents, determinants, and consequences of physical activity participation will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the theories underlying behaviour change in physical activity and how this understanding can inform physical activity interventions. Students will have the opportunity to critically examine national and international policies and approaches associated with the promotion of physical activity.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Examine the application of psychological skills, concepts and strategies in exercise and physical activity settings.
Identify psychological antecedents and correlates of exercise behaviour
Explain and critique the current theories of behaviour change that can be related to physical activity.
Critically evaluate interventions aimed at increasing physical activity levels
Critically examine recommendations and guidelines for physical activity participation
Appraise national and international policy statements and approaches to the promotion of Physical Activity
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On successful completion of this module, students should be / should be able to:
Value the usefulness of exercise psychology research for promoting physical activity
Confident in suggesting and promoting initiatives that increase and maintain physical activity involvement.
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
Perform oral presentations on key topics in health and exercise psychology.
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module will be taught in lectures and lab sessions. The teaching style will be interactive (especially in lab sessions) and problem-focussed. Students will discuss key topics in exercise and health psychology with regard to both national and international initiatives. Students will give an oral presentation in which they will critically evaluate the research on a given topic. Students will also complete a written exam in which they will they critically reflect on the key topics in exercise and health psychology.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
N/A
Prime Texts:
Buckworth, J. & Dishman, R.K (2002)
Exercise Psychology
, Human Kinetics.
Lox, C., Martin, K. & Petruzzello, S (2003)
The Psychology of Exercise: Integrating Theory and Practice
, Halcomb Hathaway
Biddle, S. & Mutrie, N. (2003)
Psychology of Physical Activity
, Routledge
Other Relevant Texts:
Biddle, S. Fox, K. & Boutcher, S. (2002)
Physical Activity and Psychological Well Being
, Routledge, London
Biddle, S (2001)
Psychology of Physical Activity: Determinants, Well Being, and Interventions
, Routledge.
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester - Year to be First Offered:
Module Leader:
matthew.herring@ul.ie