Texts, Two-Fours and Tattoos...and Other Health Issues of the Tweens to Twenties HSCI 345 (3)

This course is an investigation of some of the health issues facing adolescents, in Canada and in other international contexts. We will review the health status of adolescents using a range of indicators and consider how gender, ethnicity, socio-economic position, sexual identity, immigrant status and disability influence adolescent health. Students will explore theoretical approaches used in adolescent health research and we will discuss programs and policies that could promote adolescent and prevent morbidity and mortality in adolescence and throughout the lifecourse. Topics will include eating, eating disorders and obesity; physical activity and inactivity; tobacco, drugs and alcohol; stress, suicide and mental health; sleep; sexual health; bullying and violence; and employment This course will provide students with an opportunity to reflect on their adolescence and personal experience with particular health issues and situate their personal experience in relation to the published research literature. Prerequisite: 45 units. HSCI 130 strongly recommended. Students with credit for HSCI 471 (2007) and HSCI 472 (2009) may not complete this course for further credit.