Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Sociology of Health and Medicine will examine social aspects of health and medicine and implications for research and practice. The unit features: health inequalities; illness narratives; professional knowledge and power; risk assessment and management; public health and health promotion; HIV/AIDS and sexual health; new genetic and reproductive technologies; the media and the internet. The unit will be of interest to any student wanting to engage with social perspectives on health and medicine.

Objectives

All students completing this unit will be able to:

1. Identify and describe key perspectives in social inquiry applied to health and medicine in contemporary society
2. Discuss the social aspects of health and medicine and implications for individuals and communities
3. Apply critical arguments to current problems, debates and controversies in health and medical care
4. Identify implications for public health policy and interventions.

5. Evaluate the contribution of theoretical and research perspectives regarding the social aspects of health and medicine
6. Identify implications for social inquiry regarding health and medicine.

Assessment

Essay(2500 words): 50%
Research articles review (1000 words): 25%
+ Class test: 25% (1 hours)

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Mark Davis

Contact hours

One 2-hour seminar per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Sociology

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Sociology or permission

Prohibitions

SCY3050