Veidlapa Nr. M-3 (8)
Study Course Description
Psychooncology
Course Code
VPUPK_440
Branch of Science
Other Sub-Branches of Psychology; Psychology
ECTS
3.00
Target Audience
Dentistry; Health Management; Medicine; Midwifery; Nursing Science; Psychology; Public Health; Rehabilitation; Social Anthropology; Sports Trainer
LQF
All Levels
Study Type And Form
Full-Time; Part-Time
Study Course Implementer
Course Supervisor
Jana Duhovska
Structure Unit Manager
Kristīne Mārtinsone
Structural Unit
Department of Health Psychology and Paedagogy
Contacts
Riga, 16 Dzirciema Street, vppk@rsu.lv, +37167061587
About Study Course
Objective
To provide students with an interdisciplinary understanding of health-related behaviors and psycho-emotional experiences associated with oncological diseases across different stages of illness, by analyzing the needs, interactions, and effective support and assistance strategies of patients, their relatives, and healthcare professionals, in order to promote a patient-centered, empathetic, and professionally grounded approach to healthcare.
Preliminary Knowledge
Not required.
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
1.Understands the basic concepts and theoretical frameworks of psycho-oncology, including health behaviors related to oncological diseases, psychological adaptation, and dimensions of health-related quality of life.
2.Is familiar with the patient’s psychological, emotional, and existential experiences across different stages of illness (prevention, diagnosis, treatment, remission, recurrence, end of life), including aspects of distress, depression, anxiety, hope, and meaning in life.
3.Understands the factors influencing health behaviors in the oncology context, including decision-making regarding treatment, treatment adherence, and lifestyle choices.
4.Knows the concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and its application in understanding patients’ subjective experiences and well-being across different stages of illness.
5.Understands the experiences, needs, and challenges of healthcare professionals and patients’ relatives when working with oncology patients, as well as the impact of these factors on the treatment process and communication.
6.Is familiar with the basic principles of professional communication and support in working with oncology patients and their relatives, taking into account psychological distress, emotional state, and stage of illness.
Skills
1.Identify and analyze the patient’s psycho-emotional state across different stages of oncological illness, taking into account distress, anxiety, depression, hope, and existential issues.
2.Recognize and analyze the patient’s psychoemotional state at different stages of oncological illness, taking into account distress, anxiety, depression, hope, and existential concerns.
3.Analyze health behavior and decision-making processes in the context of oncology, evaluating individual, psychological, and situational factors.
4.Apply patient-centered and empathetic communication principles in interactions with patients and their relatives, adapting the form of communication to the stage of the illness and the individual’s needs.
5.Understand the principles of evidence-based interventions in psycho-oncology and in providing support to oncology patients and their relatives, as well as critically evaluate their suitability for a particular stage of the illness.
6.Reflect on the professional role, boundaries, and challenges of healthcare professionals, including emotional burden, ethical aspects, and collaboration with other specialists.
Competences
1.Is able to integrate theoretical knowledge of psycho-oncology and health behaviors in the analysis of patient experiences across different stages of oncological illness.
2.Is able to communicate professionally and empathetically with patients and their relatives, taking into account the stage of illness, psycho-emotional state, and individual needs.
3.Is able to critically evaluate and justify the use of evidence-based interventions in supporting patients and their relatives in the oncology context.
4.Is able to reflect on the role of healthcare professionals, professional boundaries, and ethical aspects when working with oncology patients.
5.Is able to analyze changes in health-related quality of life and their significance for patient well-being and the treatment process.
Assessment
Examination
|
Title
|
% from total grade
|
Grade
|
|---|---|---|
|
1.
Self-evaluation test for each of the six course topics |
60.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
Strengthen the lecture material by systematically reading the indicated sources and study literature and completing tests after lectures. |
||
|
2.
Analysis of scientific literature and presentation in class |
40.00% from total grade
|
10 points
|
|
To conduct an analysis of four scientific articles on a self-selected topic covered in the course and to prepare a presentation providing an evidence-based explanation, present it, and facilitate a discussion within the student group. |
||
Study Course Theme Plan
FULL-TIME
Part 1
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Prevention, health behavior, and health-related quality of life
Description
The role of health behavior in the context of oncological diseases prior to disease onset, including engagement in preventive activities and screening programs, lifestyle choices, and risk perception. The concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), including its physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. The role of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives in supporting health-promoting behaviors. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Prevention, health behavior, and health-related quality of life
Description
The role of health behavior in the context of oncological diseases prior to disease onset, including engagement in preventive activities and screening programs, lifestyle choices, and risk perception. The concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), including its physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. The role of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives in supporting health-promoting behaviors. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The diagnosis disclosure stage and decision-making
Description
Psychological and emotional reactions to receiving a diagnosis, including shock, denial, anxiety, existential distress, and fear of death. Perception and understanding of information, and decision-making regarding (non-)treatment. The role of the patient’s personality, beliefs, and previous experiences, as well as the experiences, needs, and support options of healthcare professionals and relatives at this stage. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The diagnosis disclosure stage and decision-making
Description
Psychological and emotional reactions to receiving a diagnosis, including shock, denial, anxiety, existential distress, and fear of death. Perception and understanding of information, and decision-making regarding (non-)treatment. The role of the patient’s personality, beliefs, and previous experiences, as well as the experiences, needs, and support options of healthcare professionals and relatives at this stage. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The treatment phase and psychological adaptation to illness
Description
Psychological, emotional, and social aspects of the treatment process, including distress, depression, anxiety, changes in cognitive functioning, and alterations in body image and identity. Treatment adherence and mobilization of patient resources. Professional challenges faced by healthcare professionals, communication with patients and their relatives, as well as effective support and assistance strategies. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The treatment phase and psychological adaptation to illness
Description
Psychological, emotional, and social aspects of the treatment process, including distress, depression, anxiety, changes in cognitive functioning, and alterations in body image and identity. Treatment adherence and mobilization of patient resources. Professional challenges faced by healthcare professionals, communication with patients and their relatives, as well as effective support and assistance strategies. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Remission and life after the treatment
Description
The experience of remission as a specific stage of illness characterized by relief, uncertainty, and fear of disease recurrence. Re-evaluation of quality of life, identity, and meaning in life after treatment. Adaptation of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives to the new daily reality, changes in health behaviors, and the importance of long-term support. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Remission and life after the treatment
Description
The experience of remission as a specific stage of illness characterized by relief, uncertainty, and fear of disease recurrence. Re-evaluation of quality of life, identity, and meaning in life after treatment. Adaptation of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives to the new daily reality, changes in health behaviors, and the importance of long-term support. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Recurrence and renewed confrontation with the illness
Description
The experience of recurrence as a repeated psychological and existential shock. Emotional reactions, including hopelessness, demoralization, anger, anxiety, and the transformation of hope. Recurrent decision-making regarding treatment, the emotional burden on patients and their relatives, as well as the role of healthcare professionals in reducing psychological distress and providing support. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Recurrence and renewed confrontation with the illness
Description
The experience of recurrence as a repeated psychological and existential shock. Emotional reactions, including hopelessness, demoralization, anger, anxiety, and the transformation of hope. Recurrent decision-making regarding treatment, the emotional burden on patients and their relatives, as well as the role of healthcare professionals in reducing psychological distress and providing support. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Dying and death in the context of oncological illness
Description
The end-of-life and dying experience, including patients’ psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual responses, death anxiety, search for meaning in life, and processes of hope and acceptance. The experiences of relatives and caregivers, grief, feelings of guilt, and burden. The professional role of healthcare professionals in providing dignified, empathetic, and evidence-based care. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Dying and death in the context of oncological illness
Description
The end-of-life and dying experience, including patients’ psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual responses, death anxiety, search for meaning in life, and processes of hope and acceptance. The experiences of relatives and caregivers, grief, feelings of guilt, and burden. The professional role of healthcare professionals in providing dignified, empathetic, and evidence-based care. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
24 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam (Oral)
PART-TIME
Part 1
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Prevention, health behavior, and health-related quality of life
Description
The role of health behavior in the context of oncological diseases prior to disease onset, including engagement in preventive activities and screening programs, lifestyle choices, and risk perception. The concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), including its physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. The role of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives in supporting health-promoting behaviors. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Prevention, health behavior, and health-related quality of life
Description
The role of health behavior in the context of oncological diseases prior to disease onset, including engagement in preventive activities and screening programs, lifestyle choices, and risk perception. The concept of health-related quality of life (HRQoL), including its physical, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions. The role of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives in supporting health-promoting behaviors. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The diagnosis disclosure stage and decision-making
Description
Psychological and emotional reactions to receiving a diagnosis, including shock, denial, anxiety, existential distress, and fear of death. Perception and understanding of information, and decision-making regarding (non-)treatment. The role of the patient’s personality, beliefs, and previous experiences, as well as the experiences, needs, and support options of healthcare professionals and relatives at this stage. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The diagnosis disclosure stage and decision-making
Description
Psychological and emotional reactions to receiving a diagnosis, including shock, denial, anxiety, existential distress, and fear of death. Perception and understanding of information, and decision-making regarding (non-)treatment. The role of the patient’s personality, beliefs, and previous experiences, as well as the experiences, needs, and support options of healthcare professionals and relatives at this stage. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The treatment phase and psychological adaptation to illness
Description
Psychological, emotional, and social aspects of the treatment process, including distress, depression, anxiety, changes in cognitive functioning, and alterations in body image and identity. Treatment adherence and mobilization of patient resources. Professional challenges faced by healthcare professionals, communication with patients and their relatives, as well as effective support and assistance strategies. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
The treatment phase and psychological adaptation to illness
Description
Psychological, emotional, and social aspects of the treatment process, including distress, depression, anxiety, changes in cognitive functioning, and alterations in body image and identity. Treatment adherence and mobilization of patient resources. Professional challenges faced by healthcare professionals, communication with patients and their relatives, as well as effective support and assistance strategies. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Remission and life after the treatment
Description
The experience of remission as a specific stage of illness characterized by relief, uncertainty, and fear of disease recurrence. Re-evaluation of quality of life, identity, and meaning in life after treatment. Adaptation of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives to the new daily reality, changes in health behaviors, and the importance of long-term support. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Remission and life after the treatment
Description
The experience of remission as a specific stage of illness characterized by relief, uncertainty, and fear of disease recurrence. Re-evaluation of quality of life, identity, and meaning in life after treatment. Adaptation of patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives to the new daily reality, changes in health behaviors, and the importance of long-term support. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Recurrence and renewed confrontation with the illness
Description
The experience of recurrence as a repeated psychological and existential shock. Emotional reactions, including hopelessness, demoralization, anger, anxiety, and the transformation of hope. Recurrent decision-making regarding treatment, the emotional burden on patients and their relatives, as well as the role of healthcare professionals in reducing psychological distress and providing support. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Recurrence and renewed confrontation with the illness
Description
The experience of recurrence as a repeated psychological and existential shock. Emotional reactions, including hopelessness, demoralization, anger, anxiety, and the transformation of hope. Recurrent decision-making regarding treatment, the emotional burden on patients and their relatives, as well as the role of healthcare professionals in reducing psychological distress and providing support. |
-
Lecture
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Dying and death in the context of oncological illness
Description
The end-of-life and dying experience, including patients’ psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual responses, death anxiety, search for meaning in life, and processes of hope and acceptance. The experiences of relatives and caregivers, grief, feelings of guilt, and burden. The professional role of healthcare professionals in providing dignified, empathetic, and evidence-based care. |
-
Class/Seminar
|
Modality
|
Location
|
Contact hours
|
|---|---|---|
|
Off site
|
Online
|
2
|
Topics
|
Dying and death in the context of oncological illness
Description
The end-of-life and dying experience, including patients’ psychological, emotional, social, and spiritual responses, death anxiety, search for meaning in life, and processes of hope and acceptance. The experiences of relatives and caregivers, grief, feelings of guilt, and burden. The professional role of healthcare professionals in providing dignified, empathetic, and evidence-based care. |
Total ECTS (Creditpoints):
3.00
Contact hours:
24 Academic Hours
Final Examination:
Exam (Oral)
Bibliography
Required Reading
1.
Sudraba, V. & Duhovska, J. (2025). Psihoonkoloģija. Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte
2.
Kreitler, S. (2019). Psycho-Oncology for the Clinician: The Patient Behind the Disease. Springer
3.
Kassianos, A. (2022). Handbook of Quality of Life in Cancer. Springers
Additional Reading
1.
Mārtinsone, K., & Sudraba, V. (Zin. red.). (2019). Veselības psiholoģija: Teorijas un prakses starpdisciplinārā perspektīva (2. papild. izd.). Rīgas Stradiņa universitāte
2.
Baltiņa, D. (2019). Diagnoze – vēzis: kā saprast slimību un tās ārstēšanu. Dzīvības koks.
Other Information Sources
1.
Psycho-Oncology
2.
Cochrane Library – Public Health Group
3.
European Health Psychology Society (EHPS) Resource Hub
4.
Psychology Today: The Biopsychosocial Perspectives
5.
World Health Organization. Cancer programme