This course provides an overview of the rapidly growing field of health psychology. We examine current research to understand how biological, psychological, and social factors influence health outcomes, with a focus on chronic and life-threatening illnesses (e.g., cancer, AIDS, diabetes, hypertension, and chronic pain conditions). We explore the role of psychologists and psychological research in prevention, early detection, and adaptation to illness. Consideration is given to cultural and gender factors that influence health-related behaviors, access to and utilization of health-related resources, and health outcomes.