Psychologie sociale de la santé et compétences psychosociales en éducation thérapeutique : des enjeux pour la recherche et pour la pratique

The article presents the theoretical-methodological contributions of Social Health Psychology on the evaluation and reinforcement of psychosocial skills in the context of therapeutic patient education. This is illustrated by a synthesis of the results of several empirical researches in the field of pediatric diabetes. This synthesis shows that psychosocial skills are part of a system of actions and interpretations shaped by therapeutic and relational issues as well as social symbolism. Several practical implications emerge from these results for more effective work on the psychosocial skills of patients. The article concludes with the interest of a “psychosocial clinic” which draws on the viewpoint of Social Health Psychology to evaluate, analyze and intervene on the psychosocial determinants of health behaviours.