The authors are all health psychologists with backgrounds in nursing who have drawn upon their clinical, teaching and research interests to inform the content and engage students? interest. The text retains its emphasis on the application of fundamental psychological principles in health and social care settings. However, this edition has been extensively rewritten to give increased attention to the developing evidence base within the psychology of health and illness. Examples of classic and recent psychological research are presented throughout to demonstrate the application of theory to practice. The addition of a family scenario, focused on professional, patient and carer perspectives, together with a detailed case study, enables students to understand how psychological theories can be applied in clinical settings. Overall, the text provides clear and concise descriptions of psychological theories, research-based evidence, and practical examples of applications across the lifespan in different health and social care settings.