Sociology of Health

Assignment task:

Write an essay of 1500 words (+/-10%) which answers the following question:

In what way are health and illness socially constructed: 1) the social model of health; 2) the experience of illness; and 3) doctor-patient interaction?

Instructions:

Address ALL THREE issues in your essay.
For 1, discuss up to TWO social divisions covered in the module (e.g. gender, age, class, ethnicity, etc) in your answer.
For 2, make sure you discuss the ‘sick role' in your answer.
For 3, make sure you discuss the role of the state and health care professionals in the organisation and delivery of health care in your answer.

Use relevant concepts and theories we have covered during the module, and any which you have discovered during your research, to inform your analysis. Use real world examples or other empirical evidence to support your arguments.

Learning outcome 1: Describe main theories in sociology of health and illness
Learning outcome 2: Understand the role of the State and the professions in the management of health
Learning outcome 3: Understand the cultural and societal influences related to the social construction of health.
Learning outcome 4: Understand the concept of the ‘sick role' and its role in the management of health and illness