1.1. Describe the role of psychology within health and social care.
The scientific study of the mind and behaviour is known as psychology. When people, including ourselves, have a better understanding of their own minds and behaviours, better environments are created for both the healthcare industry and the community at large.
Psychologists are people who have studied psychology and use what they have learned to help those who come in contact with them. The importance of psychologists in social and health issues cannot be overstated. A few of their roles include;
- They offer therapy to those dealing with loss and bereavement.
- They assist those who are struggling with addiction to get over it and adopt a healthy lifestyle.
- In surgical cases, a psychologist can provide the patient with stress and anxiety management advice.
- They assist people with mental health issues brought on by traumatic experiences and provide guidance and counselling to school staff and students.
- They provide therapeutic interventions to those struggling with mental health issues, addiction, and trauma.
- They also conduct research to improve our understanding of the mind and behaviour and to develop new and more effective ways to treat psychological disorders.
- Psychologists help employees in the workforce by conducting research on how the work environment can be improved and how to make it more conducive to productivity.
- They work to improve the workplace environment and promote healthy lifestyles.
Other answers in the full document:
- 1.2. Describe types of psychologists and the roles of each within health and social care settings
- 2.1. Describe the concepts of nature and nurture in relation to human development and behaviour.
- 2.2. Explain the nature versus nurture debate.
- 3.1. Describe psychological theories.
- 3.2. Explain the impact of psychological theory on health and social care practice.
- 3.3. Compare and contrast approaches to health and social care practice based on psychological theory.
- 4.1. Discuss psychological approaches in the management of an identified mental health condition.
- 4.2. Analyse a psychological approach in relation to an identified mental health condition