Psychology within a general hospital: Historical, conceptual, and practical aspects

The practice of applied Psychology in the hospital environment is marked by relevant historical facts that contributed to the definition and delimitation of this area of professional practice. This article aimed to present the practical, conceptual, and historical aspects of Psychology within a general hospital in the United States of America and in Brazil. The provision of psychology services within a general hospital began in the 1950s, and sometime later Health Psychology was recognizes as a specialty. Such practice involves hospital evaluation and specific psychological interventions, depending on the theoretical approach used. With regard to the conceptual aspects, professional psychological support aims to facilitate adaptation and help hospitalized patients cope with the challenges they face prioritizing the triad: patients, family, and healthcare team.

Keywords:
Hospitalization; Health psychology; Hospital psychology