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The Psychological Roots of Health Promotion

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An Integrated View of Health and Well-being

Part of the book series: Cross-Cultural Advancements in Positive Psychology ((CAPP,volume 5))

Abstract

This chapter deals with an issue that is becoming increasingly relevant to the medical domain: the active role played by the individuals in the preservation and promotion of their own health. This aspect is prominently related to the psychological and social dimensions of health, since it calls into play attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that are grounded into the goal and value hierarchy of the individual, as well as into the cultural norms and habits. In the following pages, the psychological dimensions will be specifically investigated. A brief outline of the major constructs and mechanisms identified by health psychology within the Western biopsychosocial model will be provided, followed by some hints on the conceptualization of mind in relation to health and disease as developed in Āyurveda. Similarities and differences between the two perspectives will be highlighted, with the aim of opening an integration pathway.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    in which vata prevails.

  2. 2.

    in which pitta prevails.

  3. 3.

    in which kapha, also called śleṣma, prevails.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milano, Milan, Italy

    Antonella Delle Fave

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  1. Ayurvedic Point, C.so Sempione 63, Milano, 20149, Italy

    Antonio Morandi

  2. SNA Oushadhasala Pvt. Ltd, Moospet Road, Thrissur, Kerala, 680 005, India

    A.N.Narayanan Nambi

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Fave, A.D. (2013). The Psychological Roots of Health Promotion. In: Morandi, A., Nambi, A. (eds) An Integrated View of Health and Well-being. Cross-Cultural Advancements in Positive Psychology, vol 5. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-007-6689-1_9

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