Main description:

Understanding the Sociology of Health, 3rd Edition is a truly 'readable' introduction to a subject which is often shrouded in jargon. Providing case studies and exercises to really get you thinking, this book shows how sociology provides the means to answer complex questions about health and illness, such as why health inequalities exist: The 3rd edition includes four new chapters on - history of health & healing - sexuality - sport, fitness & exercise - death & dying Though aimed primarily at students on health and social care courses and professions allied to medicine, this textbook provides valuable insights for anyone interested in the social aspects of health.

Contents:

PART ONE: THEORIES, PERSPECTIVES AND CONCEPTS Sociological Theory: Explaining and Theorizing Concepts of Health and Medicine Medical Power and Knowledge Challenging Medical Dominance Evidence and Enquiry: An Overview of Sociological Research PART TWO: KEY THEMES Class and Health Ethnicity, Race and Health Gender and Health Mental Health Sexualities and Health - Megan Todd Sociology of the Body: Chronic Illness and Disability Health, Ageing and the Life Course PART THREE: CONTEXTS Places of Care Health Care in Context - Clare Swan and Pedro Morago A Brief Social History of Health and Healing Sport, Health, Exercise and the Body Death and Dying