Crash Course Sociology: Medical Sociology

The video explores medical sociology, highlighting how social and cultural factors influence health, disease, and illness. It traces the evolution of Western medicine from humoral theories to scientific approaches, discusses the concept of the sick role, and examines medicalization. The video also differentiates between disease and illness, emphasizing the social construction of health and the impact of societal beliefs on illness responses.

What does medical sociology primarily focus on?

• Technological advancements in medicine

• Economic impacts on healthcare

• Social and cultural influences on health

• Biological factors affecting health

Who is considered the 'father' of Western medicine?

• Galen

• Hippocrates

• Aristotle

• Plato

What was the primary belief of humoral medicine?

• Illnesses are caused by bacteria

• Diseases result from imbalances in body humors

• Genetic factors are responsible for illnesses

• Viruses are the main cause of diseases

What is the main function of the 'sick role' in society?

• To promote healthy living

• To create a social space for non-normative behaviors

• To encourage people to avoid doctors

• To increase medical costs

According to Parsons, what is a requirement for someone to be considered 'properly' sick?

• They must continue their daily responsibilities

• They must isolate themselves completely

• They must want to get better and seek medical care

• They must avoid all social interactions

What does the term 'medicalization' refer to?

• Redefining social behaviors as medical conditions

• The process of curing diseases

• The development of new medical technologies

• The increase in healthcare costs

What is the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) used for?

• To train medical professionals

• To regulate pharmaceutical companies

• To classify medical equipment

• To define and revise disease diagnoses

How is 'disease' typically defined?

• A temporary state of discomfort

• A structural or physical dysfunction of the body

• An emotional reaction to illness

• A social response to symptoms

What influences a person's illness beliefs?

• Cultural, social, and personal factors

• Only biological factors

• Government policies

• Strictly economic factors

What role do social institutions play in illness responses?

• They define diseases and shape access to treatment

• They focus solely on mental health

• They have no influence

• They only provide financial support