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Understanding the Sociology of Health
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Understanding the Sociology of Health
An Introduction

Sixth edition


October 2025 | 312 pages | SAGE Publications Ltd

Why do health inequalities exist? How do gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity or class affect health? How do climate change and technology impact health and illness?

Written in a clear, student-friendly style, this is an exploration of the key sociological debates, themes and theories as they relate to health. Taking a global perspective, it is packed with comparative examples, case studies and activities, showing how sociology can answer complex questions about health and illness and make you a better practitioner.

In this book you will:

·       Build your foundational knowledge with clear discussions of the research and perspectives within the sociology of health, along with a historical overview of the subject.

·       Read chapters based on a diverse range of key themes from gender and sexuality to health inequalities, race, class, mental health and ageing.

·       Apply what you’ve learnt across different cutting-edge contexts and real-life situations, including pandemics, policy, sport, and technology.

This textbook provides valuable insights for anyone studying health and social care, nursing or who is interested in the social aspects of health.

 
Section One: Theories, Perspectives and Contexts
 
Chapter 1: Sociological Theory: Explaining and Theorising
 
Chapter 2: Understanding Health and Wellbeing
 
Chapter 3: A Brief History of Health and Healing
 
Chapter 4: Climate Change, Nature and Wellbeing
 
Section Two: Key Themes
 
Chapter 5: Inequality and Health
 
Chapter 6: Gender and Health
 
Chapter 7: Race, Ethnicity and Health
 
Chapter 8: Mental Health
 
Chapter 9: Sexual Identities and Health (with Megan Todd)
 
Chapter 10: Sociology of the Body: Chronic Illness and Disability
 
Chapter 11: Health, Ageing and the Life Course
 
Section Three: Contexts
 
Chapter 12: Pandemics and Society
 
Chapter 13: Health Policy
 
Chapter 14: Sport, Health, Exercise and Wellbeing
 
Chapter 15: Death and Dying
 
Chapter 16: Health Technologies and Digital Societies

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