Question

Which of the major theoretical perspectives best explains the sociology of health and why?

Answer 1

The major theoretical perspective that best explains the sociology of health the functionalist perspective, according to which for the stability of the society, health is a requirement and therefore a sickness is a form of deviance that is sanctioned. Talcott Parsons (1951) first discussed this and clearly defined the sick person’s role: Since a sick person has not chosen to be sick he or she should not be considered responsible for his or her condition. Thus they should be given the right of being exempt from normal social roles. This concept is important as it creates space for the sick in society and makes them special, people who are supposed to be cared for.