PSYC 241 Health and Mental Health Disparities in an International Context: The Case of Thailand

This course presents students with an opportunity to learn about contemporary issues, problems, and controversies in global health and mental health through a 28-day immersive study abroad experience in Thailand. Students will be able to further their cross-cultural and critical thinking skills and learn how to engage and work ethically in a complex tapestry of social, economic, political, and environmental determinants of health. A psychosocial model of health will be explored while comparing Western/Eastern perspectives, urban/rural locations, and majority/underserved populations (gender, socioeconomic, race, age, disability, etc.). Students will observe the interaction between health systems and public policy in developing/emerging global economy areas, and explore the role of Thai, international, private sector, and non-government-organizations in addressing health and mental health needs. While on site visits, students will learn about Eastern and Thai perspectives on mental health and health, including traditional and non-traditional approaches to treatment and health. Through these site visits, students will also have the opportunity to focus on particular global health issues like integrated models of health; trafficking of humans, illegal substances, and arms; refugees and migration; communicable diseases; HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment; safe water and food access; the impact of climate change; and the emergence of wellness and medical tourism.