Introduction to biosocial medicine : the social, psychological, and biological determinants of human behavior and well-being / Donald A. Barr.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Barr, Donald A., author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Social medicine.

Medicine and psychology.

Behavioral Medicine--education.

Social Medicine--education.

Socioeconomic Factors.

Medical Subjects:

Behavioral Medicine--education.

Social Medicine--education.

Socioeconomic Factors.

Physical Description:

xv, 193 pages ; 26 cm

Place of Publication:

Baltimore : Johns Hopkins University Press, [2016]

Summary:

Understanding human behavior is essential if medical students and doctors are to provide more effective health care. -- While 40 percent of premature deaths in the United States can be attributed to such dangerous behaviors as smoking, overeating, inactivity, and drug or alcohol use, medical education has generally failed to address how these behaviors are influenced by social forces. This new textbook from Dr. Donald A. Barr was designed in response to the growing recognition that physicians need to understand the biosocial sciences behind human behavior in order to be effective practitioners. Introduction to Biosocial Medicine explains the determinants of human behavior and the overwhelming impact of behavior on health. Drawing on both recent and historical research, the book combines the study of the biology of humans with the social and psychological aspects of human behavior. Dr. Barr, a sociologist as well as physician, illustrates how the biology of neurons, the intricacies of the human mind, and the power of broad social forces all influence individual perceptions and responses. Addressing the enormous potential of interventions from medical and public health professionals to alter these patterns of human behavior over time, Introduction to Biosocial Medicine brings necessary depth and perspective to medical training and education.

Contents:

Understanding human behavior

Behavior and well-being

Inequality and well-being

Society, culture, and behavior

Identity and behavior

Motivation and behavior

Personality, behavior, and well-being

The brain and behavior

Cognition, behavior, and well-being

Social inequality, childhood experiences, and behavior

Understanding well-being and the interventions that can enhance it.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

ISBN:

9781421418605

1421418606

OCLC:

904424055