This course explores how people think about contagion, and how intuitive thinking contrasts with expert biomedical germ theory perspectives. Participants will learn that contagion effects may be physical, social-moral, or psychological, and can be both negative and positive. Course content will discuss how distortions can occur in laypersons' and experts' thinking about contagion and illnesses, when these distortions are most likely to occur, and the behavioral and emotional consequences this can have. In addition, information about the cultural context of contagion and how to integrate culturally-based patient beliefs about contagion and illness into a traditional treatment plan is provided.

• Describe the complex psychological nature of contagion, including the distinction between “contagion” from a specific biomedical/physical germ theory perspective versus a broader intuitive/psychological perspective.
• Identify and predict common cognitive (i.e., beliefs) and behavioral (i.e., adherence) issues, concerns, and distortions that arise when working within a contagious disease model (e.g., HIV).
• Distinguish individual (patient, provider) and cultural factors that influence thinking about contagion, and integrate culturally-based contagion-related education, prevention, and treatment into their work with patients, families, and their support systems.