ESC 352 - Psychology of Physical Activity Credits: 3

Covers four major topic areas: research methods and potential biases in the behavioral sciences; the effects of exercise and physical activity on mental health; behavioral approaches and theories to understanding and influencing physical activity; and psychosocial factors as they relate to health, chronic disease, and pain. Students required to read and critically evaluate primary research articles as well as literature reviews. Emphasizes a biopsychosocial approach to health and illness. Issues unique to children, older adults, those with chronic disease and disability, women, and people of color highlighted. Sensitivity to diversity, including race, class, ethnicity, and gender emphasized. Course uses lectures and class discussions. Restricted to exercise science majors/minors until schedule clean-up.

Prerequisite(s): ESC 250 with minimum grade of C and (PSY 101 or HON 151 )