HSC220 - Society, Culture and Health: A Sociological Introduction

This unit introduces students to the sociological perspective and how it can be used to offer a how and/or why explanation for a wide range of health issues. Students are introduced to key theoretical approaches in health sociology, drawing on Functionalism, Conflict Perspective, Symbolic Interactionism and Feminist Theory, and will learn how to apply these to health issues.

Students will examine the relationship between social structure, culture and health to investigate the social distribution and patterning of health and illness. This unit also discusses the social construction of power, inequity, and privilege as determinants of health and to self-reflect on their own beliefs and bias. The social organisation of the health care system and social issues in health care will also be explored, witha specific focus on cultural safety. This unit also includes opportunities to participate in international study tours.

Unit Information

PRESCRIBED TEXT - SECOND OPINION