Psychoneuroimmunology
Study Course Implementer
Dzirciema Street 16, Riga, vppk@rsu.lv
About Study Course
Objective
Ensure an appropriate, clinically applicable understanding of the mechanisms of interaction between the psyche-nervous system-endocrine system-immune system at the level of the professional master, developing the ability to interpret PNI studies in a critical manner, evaluate the importance of stress and inflammatory processes in the context of psychiatric and somatic health, as well as reasonably integrate PNI principles into the conceptualisation, psychological evaluation and intervention planning of the client case in an interdisciplinary team.
Preliminary Knowledge
Study courses acquired:
Clinical and health psychology.
Biopsychosocial approach to health and health psychology.
The regulation and health of the body’s functions.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.1. Explains basic mechanisms of PNI: stress physiology (HPA axis, ANS), inflammatory signaling pathways, key principles of immune response, and their relationship to psychological processes. 2. Describes common PNI biomarkers (e.g. CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, cortisol; sleep/HRV indicators) and their interpretation limitations.
Skills
1.1. Critical assessment of quality and conclusions of PNI studies (design, sample, measurement times, confounders, effect sizes, causation limits). 2. Integrates PNI findings into client case conceptualization (biopsychosocial model) by formulating reasonable hypotheses about mechanisms and risks. 3. Develop evidence-based rationale for the psychological intervention plan, linking it to the objectives of stress and inflammatory regulation (e.g. sleep improvement, stress management, physical activity, behavioural changes), within the limits of professional competence.
Competences
1.Cooperate professionally with medical practitioners and other specialists, integrating into a multiprofessional team, reasonably presenting conclusions and recommendations based on PNI analysis, evaluating and critically separating psychological interventions (such as SFBT) from medical diagnostic and treatment methods, ensuring the protection of the patient’s interests. Demonstrates a high level of responsibility by rightly choosing ethically and legally correct solutions for dealing with sensitive health data.
Assessment
Individual work
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Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Scientific paper analysis |
30.00% from total grade
|
10 points
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Critical evaluation of scientific paper |
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2.
Case conceptualisation + justification for intervention |
40.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
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Student chooses (or the lecturer assigns) an empirical PNI study and produces a structured critical evaluation (1-2 pp or a certain amount of words). Clinical/health case given; student prepares:
Covers basic terms, mechanisms, limits on the interpretation of biomarkers and the differentiation of levels of evidence of PNI. |
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3.
Additional requirements |
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-
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A mandatory requirement is the provision of assessment/feedback of the study course at the end of the study course on the e-learning platform. The provisions regarding the use of AI within the framework of the study, as well as the guidelines in the study process have been observed: https://www.rsu.lv/maksligais-intelekts-augstakaja-izglitiba. |
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Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
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|---|---|---|
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1.
Final examinations (test + short open questions/situation tasks) |
30.00% from total grade
|
10 points
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Final examinations (test + short open questions/situation tasks) |
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Study Course Theme Plan
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Lecture
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Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
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|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
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PNI introduction: paradigms and historical Translation
Description
The topic provides insight into the historical evolution of PNI and the transformation of the biopsychosocial framework. According to the E uroPsy theoretical Foundation, students learn the principles of translation – how laboratory knowledge of molecular processes becomes the basis for psychological practice, distinguishing between scientific PNI and pseudoscientific claims. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
PNI introduction: paradigms and historical Translation
Description
The topic provides insight into the historical evolution of PNI and the transformation of the biopsychosocial framework. According to the E uroPsy theoretical Foundation, students learn the principles of translation – how laboratory knowledge of molecular processes becomes the basis for psychological practice, distinguishing between scientific PNI and pseudoscientific claims. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
PNI introduction: paradigms and historical Translation
Description
The topic provides insight into the historical evolution of PNI and the transformation of the biopsychosocial framework. According to the E uroPsy theoretical Foundation, students learn the principles of translation – how laboratory knowledge of molecular processes becomes the basis for psychological practice, distinguishing between scientific PNI and pseudoscientific claims. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms I. stress physiology: adaptation and allostatic load
Description
The topic focuses on the body’s systemic response by analyzing the HPA axis, sympathetic nervous system, and the concept of allostasis. According to the occupational standard, the student learns the skills to explain how short-term adaptation transforms into a chronic allostatic load, creating a biological basis for psychosomatic risks. |
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Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms I. stress physiology: adaptation and allostatic load
Description
The topic focuses on the body’s systemic response by analyzing the HPA axis, sympathetic nervous system, and the concept of allostasis. According to the occupational standard, the student learns the skills to explain how short-term adaptation transforms into a chronic allostatic load, creating a biological basis for psychosomatic risks. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms I. stress physiology: adaptation and allostatic load
Description
The topic focuses on the body’s systemic response by analyzing the HPA axis, sympathetic nervous system, and the concept of allostasis. According to the occupational standard, the student learns the skills to explain how short-term adaptation transforms into a chronic allostatic load, creating a biological basis for psychosomatic risks. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms I. stress physiology: adaptation and allostatic load
Description
The topic focuses on the body’s systemic response by analyzing the HPA axis, sympathetic nervous system, and the concept of allostasis. According to the occupational standard, the student learns the skills to explain how short-term adaptation transforms into a chronic allostatic load, creating a biological basis for psychosomatic risks. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms II. Immune system basics and inflammatory mediators
Description
The topic has been adapted for psychologists, explaining innate and acquired immunity, cytokine role and inflammatory mechanisms. It provides the understanding of biological functioning mechanisms required by the Professional Standard by preparing the student for a multidisciplinary conversation with medical staff. |
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Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms II. Immune system basics and inflammatory mediators
Description
The topic has been adapted for psychologists, explaining innate and acquired immunity, cytokine role and inflammatory mechanisms. It provides the understanding of biological functioning mechanisms required by the Professional Standard by preparing the student for a multidisciplinary conversation with medical staff. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms II. Immune system basics and inflammatory mediators
Description
The topic has been adapted for psychologists, explaining innate and acquired immunity, cytokine role and inflammatory mechanisms. It provides the understanding of biological functioning mechanisms required by the Professional Standard by preparing the student for a multidisciplinary conversation with medical staff. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Biological mechanisms II. Immune system basics and inflammatory mediators
Description
The topic has been adapted for psychologists, explaining innate and acquired immunity, cytokine role and inflammatory mechanisms. It provides the understanding of biological functioning mechanisms required by the Professional Standard by preparing the student for a multidisciplinary conversation with medical staff. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Neuroinflammation and afecta regulation
Description
Analyzes the effects of cytokines on the brain and the phenomenon of “disease behavior” (Sickness behavior). According to EuroPsy explaining models, students learn to recognize how immune system activation modules affective processes and cognitive functioning, creating a neurobiological basis for mood changes. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Neuroinflammation and afecta regulation
Description
Analyzes the effects of cytokines on the brain and the phenomenon of “disease behavior” (Sickness behavior). According to EuroPsy explaining models, students learn to recognize how immune system activation modules affective processes and cognitive functioning, creating a neurobiological basis for mood changes. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Neuroinflammation and afecta regulation
Description
Analyzes the effects of cytokines on the brain and the phenomenon of “disease behavior” (Sickness behavior). According to EuroPsy explaining models, students learn to recognize how immune system activation modules affective processes and cognitive functioning, creating a neurobiological basis for mood changes. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Neuroinflammation and afecta regulation
Description
Analyzes the effects of cytokines on the brain and the phenomenon of “disease behavior” (Sickness behavior). According to EuroPsy explaining models, students learn to recognize how immune system activation modules affective processes and cognitive functioning, creating a neurobiological basis for mood changes. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Mental disorders and inflammatory mediators. Psychoneuroimmunology interventions and future perspectives. Digital health and artificial intelligence
Description
The topic evaluates the science-based and hypothetical links between inflammation, depression and anxiety. Students develop the skills to identify mediators and moderators consistent with the competence of investigative criticism and the identity of Scientist-Practitioner. In the context of PNI for psychosocial intervention: solution focused short-term therapy technique (SFBT) (solution focused short-term therapy) and cognitive Biheivioral therapy technique (CBT) for reducing stress and systemic inflammation. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Mental disorders and inflammatory mediators. Psychoneuroimmunology interventions and future perspectives. Digital health and artificial intelligence
Description
The topic evaluates the science-based and hypothetical links between inflammation, depression and anxiety. Students develop the skills to identify mediators and moderators consistent with the competence of investigative criticism and the identity of Scientist-Practitioner. In the context of PNI for psychosocial intervention: solution focused short-term therapy technique (SFBT) (solution focused short-term therapy) and cognitive Biheivioral therapy technique (CBT) for reducing stress and systemic inflammation. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Mental disorders and inflammatory mediators. Psychoneuroimmunology interventions and future perspectives. Digital health and artificial intelligence
Description
The topic evaluates the science-based and hypothetical links between inflammation, depression and anxiety. Students develop the skills to identify mediators and moderators consistent with the competence of investigative criticism and the identity of Scientist-Practitioner. In the context of PNI for psychosocial intervention: solution focused short-term therapy technique (SFBT) (solution focused short-term therapy) and cognitive Biheivioral therapy technique (CBT) for reducing stress and systemic inflammation. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Circadian rhythms: sleep and cortisol dynamics
Description
The topic focuses on interaction between biological rhythms and immunity when analyzing the circadian profile of cortisol. Students learn to interpret biological data in a psychological context, which is relevant in the standard section of the profession on the overall functioning and lifestyle analysis of an individual. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Circadian rhythms: sleep and cortisol dynamics
Description
The topic focuses on interaction between biological rhythms and immunity when analyzing the circadian profile of cortisol. Students learn to interpret biological data in a psychological context, which is relevant in the standard section of the profession on the overall functioning and lifestyle analysis of an individual. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Circadian rhythms: sleep and cortisol dynamics
Description
The topic focuses on interaction between biological rhythms and immunity when analyzing the circadian profile of cortisol. Students learn to interpret biological data in a psychological context, which is relevant in the standard section of the profession on the overall functioning and lifestyle analysis of an individual. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Early life experience and epigenetic profile
Description
Analyses the long-term effects of childhood trauma and stress on immune system programming. According to EuroPsy developmental contex t, the topic explains how the social environment “biologically embodies” (epigenetics), affecting the health trajectory throughout the lifecycle. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Early life experience and epigenetic profile
Description
Analyses the long-term effects of childhood trauma and stress on immune system programming. According to EuroPsy developmental contex t, the topic explains how the social environment “biologically embodies” (epigenetics), affecting the health trajectory throughout the lifecycle. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Early life experience and epigenetic profile
Description
Analyses the long-term effects of childhood trauma and stress on immune system programming. According to EuroPsy developmental contex t, the topic explains how the social environment “biologically embodies” (epigenetics), affecting the health trajectory throughout the lifecycle. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Microbiota-gut-brain axis: Science versus myths
Description
The topic focuses on interaction between microbiome and brain, accentuating levels of evidence. Students develop critical thinking by distinguishing evidence-based PNI from popular scientific exaggerations, an essential component of academic integrity. |
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Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Microbiota-gut-brain axis: Science versus myths
Description
The topic focuses on interaction between microbiome and brain, accentuating levels of evidence. Students develop critical thinking by distinguishing evidence-based PNI from popular scientific exaggerations, an essential component of academic integrity. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Effects of behavioural Factor PNI
Description
Analyses the effects of diet, activity and harmful habits on systemic inflammation. The subject is consistent with the profession’s standard requirement to promote healthy lifestyles by giving students the biological arguments to justify behavioural change interventions. |
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Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Effects of behavioural Factor PNI
Description
Analyses the effects of diet, activity and harmful habits on systemic inflammation. The subject is consistent with the profession’s standard requirement to promote healthy lifestyles by giving students the biological arguments to justify behavioural change interventions. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Effects of behavioural Factor PNI
Description
Analyses the effects of diet, activity and harmful habits on systemic inflammation. The subject is consistent with the profession’s standard requirement to promote healthy lifestyles by giving students the biological arguments to justify behavioural change interventions. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Chronic diseases in PNI view
Description
The topic looks at cardiometabolic risks and autoimmunity through the prism of PNI. Students learn a systemic view of the chronic pain and illness required to work in rehabilitation teams and multidisciplinary healthcare. |
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Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Chronic diseases in PNI view
Description
The topic looks at cardiometabolic risks and autoimmunity through the prism of PNI. Students learn a systemic view of the chronic pain and illness required to work in rehabilitation teams and multidisciplinary healthcare. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
On site
|
Study room
|
1
|
Topics
|
Chronic diseases in PNI view
Description
The topic looks at cardiometabolic risks and autoimmunity through the prism of PNI. Students learn a systemic view of the chronic pain and illness required to work in rehabilitation teams and multidisciplinary healthcare. |
Bibliography
Required Reading
Lazarus, R. S., & Folkman, S. (2023). Stress, appraisal, and coping: A 40th anniversary edition. Springer Publishing Company.
Marks, D. F., Murray, M., & Estacio, E. V. (2024). Health psychology: Theory, research and practice (7th ed.). SAGE Publications.
Suls, J., Ensel, K., & Revenson, T. A. (Eds.). (2023). Handbook of health psychology (3rd ed.). Routledge.
Taylor, S. E., & Stanton, A. L. (2025). Health psychology (12th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
Additional Reading
Berna-Erro, A., & Moreno, M. (2024). The practical implementation of artificial intelligence in healthcare: Challenges and opportunities. Nature Medicine, 30(1), 24–36.
Irwin, M. R., & Vedhara, K. (Eds.). (2023). The Oxford handbook of psychoneuroimmunology (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.
Lupton, D. (2025). Digital health and society: New directions. Polity Press.
Neff, K., & Germer, C. (2024). The mindful self-compassion handbook for clinicians. Guilford Press.
Segerstrom, S. C. (2023). The oxford handbook of psychoneuroimmunology and health. Oxford University Press.
Yardley, L., & Morrison, L. (2023). Digital behavior change interventions. In J. Suls (Ed.), Handbook of health psychology (pp. 455–472). Routledge
Other Information Sources
Cochrane Library – Public Health Group. (n.d.). Systematic reviews on health behavior interventions.
European Federation of Psychologists' Associations (EFPA). (2024). EuroPsy: The European standard of education and professional training in psychology.