To develop an understanding of the Social Model of health and the sociological critique of the bio-medical approach to public health.

4HW098 - The Sociology of Health and Illness

Assignment 1:A 500-word Case Study applying the Social Model of Health 

Weighting: 25% of Total Module Mark

Submit to Canvas on Tuesday 25th October 2022 by 2pm

Case Study guide

1) Choose one person (your ‘case’) to write about.This could be yourself,someone you know (anonymized), or a hypothetical person. Provide a biographical outline of the person – e.g.key aspects of their social  identity (e.g. age, gender, education, family, social background, major life experiences).(100 words)

To develop an understanding of the Social Model of health and the sociological critique of the bio-medical approach to public health.

2) Using bullet-points as sub-headings, outline key social influences (e.g. gender, age, ethnicity, family, income, occupation, diet, education, social environment) that have shaped and currently shape this person’s physical mental and social health. (300 words)

3) Conclusion – summarize this person’s overall health status.Identify which social factors you consider to be the most positive and most negative influences on their health (100 words)

NB No references are required for this assignment.The aim of this assignment is to explore the Sociological Imagination

(and to apply it to a ‘real’ person) using a reflective,personal,‘in your own words’ approach.

This could be yourself,someone you know (anonymized), or a hypothetical person.

Provide a biographical outline of the person – e.g.key aspects of their social  identity.

Learning Outcomes

The unit "4HW098 - The Sociology of Health and Illness" explores the social dimensions of health, illness, and healthcare. Here`s an overview of the key topics typically covered in such a course:

1. Introduction to Medical Sociology

• Definition and scope of medical sociology.
• The relationship between society and health.
• Historical development of medical sociology as a field of study.

2. Social Determinants of Health

• How factors like socioeconomic status, race, gender, and environment affect health outcomes.
• The impact of social inequalities on access to healthcare.
• The role of public policy in addressing health disparities.

3. Health and Illness Behavior

• The social construction of health and illness.
• How individuals perceive and react to illness.
• The concept of the "sick role" and its societal implications.

4. Healthcare Systems and Policy

• Comparison of healthcare systems across different countries.
• The structure and function of healthcare institutions.
• The role of government in healthcare provision and regulation.

5. Medicalization and Demedicalization

• The process by which non-medical issues become defined and treated as medical problems.
• The implications of medicalization for individuals and society.
• The concept of demedicalization and its impact.

6. The Role of Healthcare Professionals

• The sociology of professions, with a focus on doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals.
• The power dynamics and ethical issues within healthcare settings.
• The impact of professionalization on healthcare delivery.

7. Health, Illness, and Culture

• Cross-cultural perspectives on health and illness.
• The influence of cultural beliefs and practices on health behaviors.
• The role of traditional and alternative medicine in different cultures.

8. Mental Health and Society

• The social construction and stigma of mental illness.
• The relationship between mental health and social factors like poverty and stress.
• Policy and practice in mental health care.

9. Chronic Illness and Disability

• The social experience of living with a chronic illness or disability.
• The impact of chronic illness on identity and social relationships.
• Disability rights and the social model of disability.

10. Aging, Health, and Society

• The sociology of aging and the health challenges faced by the elderly.
• Social support systems and care for the aging population.
• The impact of aging on healthcare resources and policies.

11. Global Health Issues

• The impact of globalization on health and illness.
• Major global health challenges, such as pandemics, malnutrition, and environmental health risks.
• International health organizations and their role in addressing global health issues.

12. Research Methods in Medical Sociology

• Overview of qualitative and quantitative research methods used in medical sociology.
• Ethical considerations in health-related research.
• The role of sociological research in informing health policy and practice.

This unit typically involves lectures, discussions, and assignments focused on analyzing the intersection of health, illness, and society. The goal is to provide students with a deeper understanding of how social factors influence health outcomes and healthcare practices.

Exploring the Intersection of Society and Health

The unit "4HW098 - The Sociology of Health and Illness" provides an in-depth exploration of how social structures, cultural norms, and public policies shape health outcomes and healthcare experiences. By understanding the interplay between society and health, this unit equips students with the tools to critically analyze current health issues and contribute to meaningful change.

Key Themes and Concepts

1. Social Construction of Health and Illness

• Health and illness are not just biological phenomena; they are also shaped by social and cultural contexts. This theme explores how different societies define and respond to health and illness, considering factors like cultural beliefs, media representation, and historical context.

2. Inequalities in Health

• One of the core focuses is the unequal distribution of health and healthcare resources. Students delve into how factors such as race, class, gender, and geography contribute to health disparities. This includes examining how marginalized communities often face systemic barriers to achieving optimal health.

3. The Role of Healthcare Systems

• This section analyzes the structure and function of various healthcare systems around the world. Students learn about the advantages and limitations of different models, such as universal healthcare versus private healthcare, and the impact these systems have on population health.

4. Medical Power and Authority

• The unit also investigates the power dynamics within the healthcare sector. This includes understanding the role of medical professionals, the pharmaceutical industry, and government agencies in shaping healthcare practices and policies. The concept of medical dominance and the potential for conflict between different stakeholders are key areas of study.

5. The Patient Experience

• Beyond the systemic and structural aspects, the unit emphasizes the subjective experience of health and illness. This includes exploring how individuals navigate the healthcare system, the psychosocial impact of illness, and the role of patient advocacy.

6. Public Health and Global Health Issues

• Students are introduced to the broader public health perspective, including the challenges of managing health at a population level. Global health issues such as pandemics, climate change, and health inequalities between nations are critical areas of focus.

7. Future Trends in Health and Society

• The unit also looks forward, considering emerging trends in health and society. Topics like digital health, the aging population, and the future of healthcare policy are explored to understand the evolving landscape of health and illness.

Practical Application

Through case studies, research projects, and interactive discussions, students are encouraged to apply sociological theories to real-world health issues. The unit fosters critical thinking and equips students with the analytical skills necessary to address complex health challenges in diverse social contexts.

Conclusion

"4HW098 - The Sociology of Health and Illness" is not just about understanding the relationship between society and health; it`s about empowering students to make a difference in the field of healthcare. Whether pursuing a career in public health, healthcare administration, or social research, students will leave this unit with a comprehensive understanding of the social dimensions of health and illness, ready to contribute to a healthier, more equitable world