Introduction to Sociology - Physiotherapy Lecture PDF

Introduction to Sociology Basics of Physiotherapy I School of Health University of Hertfordshire hosted by Global Academic Foundation Learning Outcomes Following this session and appropriate independent study the student should be able to:  Define...

Introduction to Sociology Basics of Physiotherapy I School of Health University of Hertfordshire hosted by Global Academic Foundation Learning Outcomes Following this session and appropriate independent study the student should be able to:  Define the field of sociology and explain its relevance to the study of health and illness.  Describe the different dimensions of health, including physical, mental, and social aspects.  Discuss the different models of health and illness, including the biomedical model, the social model, and the biopsychosocial model, and evaluate their strengths and limitations.  Describe the different individual responses to ill health, including illness behaviour, coping strategies, and help-seeking behaviours, and evaluate their effectiveness in promoting health and well-being. Understanding Sociology in Health and Illness Sociology is the study of social behaviour, institutions, and structures. It examines how societal factors influence individual behaviours, including health and illness. Its relevance to health studies lies in understanding how social factors health outcomes and access to healthcare.  Dimensions of Health Physical Health: Refers to the physiological functioning of the body. The absence of disease or illness. The ability to perform daily activities and physical tasks effectively. Maintenance of fitness levels through regular exercise and proper nutrition. Mental Health: It involves emotional and psychological well-being, affecting how individuals think, feel, and behave. The ability to cope with stress and adversity. Emotional stability and resilience. Healthy relationships and social interactions. Social Health: Relates to how individuals interact with others and their ability to form meaningful relationships. The quality of social networks and support systems. Engagement in community activities and social interactions. The ability to communicate effectively and maintain healthy relationships. Dimensions of Health Poor mental health can lead to neglect of physical health, resulting in issues like obesity or cardiovascular diseases. Conversely, chronic physical conditions can contribute to mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety. Social isolation can exacerbate both physical and mental health problems, while strong social connections can promote better health outcomes across all dimensions. Models of Health and Illness Biomedical model Key Characteristics: Focuses on diseases for accurate treatment. Based on strong scientific research. Limitations: Treats symptoms without addressing lifestyle or Often ignores mental and social health factors. environmental causes. Models of Health and Illness Social Model Key Characteristics Focuses on specific diseases for targeted Based on scientific research and clinical treatments. methods. Limitations Overlooks mental and social factors affecting May treat symptoms without considering lifestyle health. or environmental causes. Models of Health and Illness Combines biological, psychological, Biopsychosocial Model: Offers a holistic view of health Promotes teamwork, addressing and social factors to understand issues. both mental and physical health. health. Can be challenging to use due to the need for diverse expertise. Application may differ across healthcare providers.  Question: Which model do you think is the best for physiotherapy practitioners & why? Determinants of Health: Socioeconomic factors Factors such as income, education, and occupation affect access More people engage in health-risk behaviors like smoking and unhealthy eating, which raise death rates. Limited healthcare access delays diagnoses and worsens health outcomes. Chronic diseases are more common due to insufficient resources for a healthy lifestyle. Determinants of Health: Culture Culture shapes It influences diet Attitudes toward health beliefs and choices, often tied to exercise affect behaviors. traditions. fitness levels. Cultural beliefs can Limited resources for impact the use of a healthy lifestyle healthcare services increase the risk of and treatment chronic diseases. adherence. Determinants of Health: Environmental Factors Living conditions, housing quality, and neighborhood safety affect mental and physical health. Pollution and toxins can cause health problems like respiratory diseases. Access to parks and recreational spaces encourages physical activity and social interaction, improving health. Individual Responses to Health Issues: Illness behavior It refers to how individuals interpret their symptoms and decide whether to seek care. This process is influenced by various factors such as personal beliefs about the severity of the illness. Previous experiences with healthcare can shape expectations and attitudes towards seeking help. Individual Responses to Health Issues: Coping Strategies Individuals employ various coping strategies when faced with illness, which can be categorized. Problem-focused coping: This involves actively seeking solutions or support to address the illness. Emotion-focused coping: This strategy aims to manage emotional distress associated with illness. Individual Responses to Health Issues: Help-Seeking Behaviors The decision to seek help from healthcare providers is influenced by several factors: Stigma: Concerns about being judged or misunderstood. Perceived need for care: Individuals who believe they have control over their illness Availability of resources: Access to healthcare services What is an example of a disease that has both biological and social factors? Tuberculosis (TB) Biological Factors: Pathogen: TB is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. 2. Host Susceptibility: Conditions like HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and malnutrition weaken the immune system, making individuals more vulnerable to TB. 3. Drug Resistance: The emergence of multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) is a biological challenge, complicating treatment and increasing mortality rates. Tuberculosis (TB) Social Factors: Poverty: Limited access to healthcare, poor living conditions, and malnutrition increase exposure and reduce treatment effectiveness. Overcrowding: People living in densely populated areas, such as urban slums or refugee camps, face higher risks of transmission. Stigma: Fear of discrimination can delay diagnosis and treatment, worsening outcomes and perpetuating transmission. Healthcare Access: Inadequate health systems and financial barriers often prevent timely diagnosis and treatment. Work Conditions: Jobs in poorly ventilated environments, such as mines or factories, increase exposure.