Social Determinants of Health Overview

Questions and Answers

How do social structures influence individual agency?

They create both opportunities and limitations for individuals. (correct)

They are irrelevant to the individual’s decision-making process.

They completely determine individual choices.

They only affect individuals from marginalized backgrounds.

What can be inferred about the relationship between social conditions and individual freedom?

Individual freedom is ultimately determined by personal will alone.

Social conditions can completely enhance personal freedom.

Social conditions can limit or deny the possibilities of individual freedom. (correct)

Social conditions have no impact on individual freedom.

Which type of resource represents knowledge and norms that facilitate social navigation?

Social resources

Cultural resources (correct)

Material resources

Economic resources

What is a significant factor influencing health disparities as seen in Calton and Lenzie, Glasgow?

Differences in male life expectancy. Signup and view all the answers

What role does individual background play in one's life opportunities, as illustrated by Jimmy's experiences?

An adverse childhood background can severely limit life prospects. Signup and view all the answers

Which theorist is associated with the concept of individuals being shaped by societal structures?

Bourdieu Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is least likely to be considered when assessing someone's access to health resources?

Political alignment with health policies Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of marginalization in society?

Certain individuals or groups have less power and fewer resources. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines the social determinants of health?

The conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. Signup and view all the answers

During which period did urbanization contribute to high mortality from infections?

17th – 19th Century Signup and view all the answers

What is a major factor attributed to the decline of tuberculosis according to the McKeown thesis?

Social factors such as improved hygiene and sanitation Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is least likely to be an immediate concern for individuals like Jimmy regarding their health?

Personal health education Signup and view all the answers

What type of diseases became more prevalent as a result of globalization in the 20th century?

Infectious diseases and chronic health conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What role does housing play as a social determinant of health?

It directly affects mental health due to safety concerns. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'determinism' imply in the context of social determinants of health?

Health outcomes are influenced but not fully controlled by external factors. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following historical developments marked the rise of epidemic diseases?

Agricultural advancements and sedentary living. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT identified as a social determinant of health?

Inherited genetic traits Signup and view all the answers

In the comparison of health and income, which statement is most likely to be accurate?

Higher income consistently leads to better health conditions. Signup and view all the answers

From the content, what is implied about lecturing someone like Jimmy on healthy behaviors?

It is ineffective as they do not prioritize these behaviors. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant aspect of the impact of cold homes as a social determinant of health?

They often lead to financial burdens. Signup and view all the answers

Which factors are primarily shown to influence health patterns?

Social factors in combination with biology and psychology Signup and view all the answers

What role do hospitals and sanitation systems play in community health?

They provide necessary infrastructure impacting health outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recognized social determinant of health?

Genetic predisposition Signup and view all the answers

How do health inequalities arise according to the social determinants of health?

From differences in resources and experiences of social determinants. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key implication of understanding social determinants of health?

It can help address the root causes of health disparities. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best summarizes the relationship between social patterns and health?

Health patterns are influenced by both social context and individual choices. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Defined as the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age (WHO, 2008).
Influences health outcomes and overall well-being.

Historical Context of Health

Early humans faced health challenges from parasites and violence (2.5 million – 10,000 years ago).
Agriculture introduced epidemic diseases (10,000 years ago to 1400 CE).
Urbanization in the 17th to 19th centuries resulted in high mortality from infectious diseases.
Globalization (20th century - present) has led to an increase in chronic diseases like cancer and obesity alongside infectious diseases.

Life Expectancy and Health Inequality

Life expectancy varies significantly by geography and social conditions.
Stark difference in life expectancies exemplified by locations within Glasgow, e.g., 54 years in Calton vs. 82 years in Lenzie.

Individual actions are influenced by both social structures and personal choices.
Agency allows individuals to shape their circumstances, while social constraints limit those choices.
Freedom of choice can be affected by social and historical contexts, leading to issues like marginalization and discrimination.

Resources Impacting Health

Social resources: the support network and connections individuals have.
Economic resources: availability of financial assets or exchangeable goods.
Cultural resources: understanding societal norms and the ability to navigate them effectively.

Case Study of Health Determinants

The story of "Jimmy" illustrates how adverse childhood experiences, poverty, and environmental factors contribute to unhealthy behaviors, demonstrating limitations of individual responsibility over health.

Housing conditions directly influence health; inadequate housing contributes to negative health outcomes.
Essential to recognize resources available to manage housing challenges, including social, economic, and cultural support.

The McKeown Thesis

Suggests that improvements in health, such as the decline of tuberculosis, are largely due to social factors rather than just medical advances.
Key contributors to health improvement include better hygiene, sanitation, and nutrition.

Implications for Health Policy

Location and context significantly impact health outcomes.
Social determinants of health require attention alongside traditional healthcare systems.
Recognition of social patterns in health can illuminate health inequalities and inform public health strategies.

Summary Takeaways

Health is socially patterned and influenced by a range of factors beyond biology and psychology.
Social determinants lead to health inequalities, necessitating a multifaceted approach to public health and healthcare infrastructure.

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Description

Explore the social determinants of health, which are the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age. This quiz will cover historical contexts, including early human health issues and the implications of social factors on health disparities. Enhance your understanding of how social science intersects with health outcomes.