Now in its fourth edition, this definitive and popular introduction to human behaviour in the context of health and illness includes three new chapters, many new contributors and a new co-editor.

Now in its fourth edition, this definitive and popular introduction to human behaviour in the context of health and illness includes three new chapters, many new contributors and a new co-editor.

It is arranged in nine sections to cover the core concepts of psychology and sociology as they apply to medicine.

The life cycle

Development of the person

Society and health

Preventing illness and promoting health

Illness, behaviour and the doctor-patient encounter

Illness and disability

Coping with illness and disability

Hoe do health services work

How do you fit into all this?

Topics presented as self-contained double-page spreads.

Cases throughout to reinforce understanding of important concepts.

Boxes and discussion points throughout.

The authors comprise psychologists, sociologists and doctors.

Highly illustrated

48 new contributors

New co-editor, Gerry Humphris

3 new chapters:

Malnutrition and obesity

Urban nature health and well-being

LGBT Health