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PDEV 0070 - Stress and Well Being

http://catalog.sierracollege.edu/course-outlines/pdev-0070/

Catalog Description DESCRIPTION IS HERE: Hours: 54 lecture Description: Emphasis on analyzing theories, research methods, and empirical evidence regarding the relationship between stress and well-being. Overview of psychological theories of stress, including types, causes and effects. Explores solutions to mitigate its negative impacts. Explores the relationship between psychological and socio-cultural theories and factors in creating stress and affecting ones ability to manage it. Introduces research in coping techniques including meditation, cognitive strategies and the practice of wellness. (CSU, UC) Units 3 Lecture-Discussion 54 Laboratory By Arrangement Contact Hours 54 Outside of Class Hours Course Student Learning Outcomes Apply theories of psychology in stress and well-being that are relevant to life success. Create a personal wellness plan. Course Content Outline A. Defining Stress 1. Cultural, social and environmental perspective 2. Common social and environmental stressors in society 3. Theories of stress 4. Types of stress 5.Stress re-activity B. Stress and Illness: The Psychosomatic Concept 1. Psycho-physiology of stress 2. Stress and disease 3. Mind/Body connection C. Psychological aspects of stress and well being 1. Emotional Temperament Styles 2. Cognitive appraisal 3. Appraisal process 4. Cognitive distortions 5. Coping styles D. Defining well being 1. Cultural, social, and environmental perspectives 2. Theories of well being 3. Well-being and optimal functioning 4. Defining and enhancing emotional intelligence a. positive emotions b. engagement and signature strengths c. relationships d. meaning and purpose e. achievement E. Stress Reduction 1. Goals of stress reduction 2. Stress reduction interventions a. Perceptual b. Cognitive c. Emotional d. Physiological e. Mindfulness Meditation f. Time management principles g. Promoting psychological health F. Implementing a plan: The Self Improvement Project 1. Identify a behavior(s) to change 2. Examine personal behaviors that contribute and impair the process of change 3. Assess stage of change 4. Identify and implement appropriate change strategies 5. Evaluate results Course Objectives Course Objectives 1. Define the concept of stress from a sociocultural perspective 2. Compare and contrast major theories of stress 3. Name and define different types of stress 4. Identify common cognitive thinking styles and how they may influence the stress response 5. Apply appraisal method to assess cognitive response to stress 6. Describe how locus of control and self esteem contribute to stress development 7. Explain and demonstrate the following stress management techniques: deep breathing, guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation 8. Describe how basic time management principles can be used to address chronic daily lifestyle problems 9. Demonstrate a personal approach to stress management by developing a stress and wellness plan using strategies learned in class. Methods of Evaluation Classroom Discussions Essay Examinations Reports Skill Demonstrations Reading Assignments 1. Read Chapters on "The Relaxation and Stress Reduction Workbook. Take the stress self assessment questionnaire and practice the deep breathing exercises. 2. Read and critique the following article: Abbe, A.; Tkach,C & Lyubormirsky, S. (2003). The Art of Living by Dispositionally Happy People. Journal of Happiness Studies, 4, p385,20. Writing, Problem Solving or Performance 1. Journal assignments are due every other week and must be one typed page that demonstrates your experience in applying a stress management principle in your life. 2. Article Review: Find and critique a current article on stress management. List the major points of the article and describe how they relate to the contents of this course (should be two to three paragraphs). 3. Evaluate your value strengths using the Values in Action questionnaire at www.authentichappiness.org. Choose an unavoidable or stressful task to address or solve using one of your signature value strengths. 4. Write a letter of gratitude to someone who has contributed greatly to your well-being, but whom you have never thanked. Other (Term projects, research papers, portfolios, etc.) The research paper will be a minimum of five pages. The paper will examine a stress management strategy or explore a health and wellness issue. Methods of Instruction Lecture/Discussion Distance Learning Other materials and-or supplies required of students that contribute to the cost of the course.