People from the lower social stratum have been characterized as being indifferent to the symptoms of illness until poor health interferes with their lifestyle and independence. their view of life is one of a sense of powerlessness, meaninglessness, and isolation from middle-class knowledge of health and the need for preventive measures, such as vaccination for their child. Use new APA
References:
Link, B. G., & Phelan, J. (1995). Social conditions as fundamental causes of disease. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, Extra Issue, 80-94.
Williams, D. R., & Mohammed, S. A. (2009). Race, socioeconomic status, and health: Complexities, ongoing challenges
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“Perceptions of Illness in Lower Social Strata: A Barrier to Preventive Measures”
The link between social status and health has been a topic of discussion and research for many years. It has been observed that people from lower social strata tend to have different perceptions of illness and health compared to those from higher social strata. This difference in perception can lead to a lack of engagement in preventive measures, such as vaccination, leading to poorer health outcomes.
Social Conditions as Fundamental Causes of Disease
According to Link and Phelan (1995), social conditions, such as poverty, low education, and limited access to healthcare, are fundamental causes of disease. People from lower social strata are more likely to face these social conditions and therefore, are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses. The authors argue that addressing these social conditions is necessary to improve the health of individuals from lower social strata.
Perceptions of Illness in Lower Social Strata
People from lower social strata have been characterized as being indifferent to the symptoms of illness until poor health interferes with their lifestyle and independence (Link & Phelan, 1995). They view life as a sense of powerlessness, meaninglessness, and isolation from middle-class knowledge of health and the need for preventive measures. This indifference to health can lead to a lack of engagement in preventive measures such as vaccination, leading to poorer health outcomes.
Race and Socioeconomic Status
According to Williams and Mohammed (2009), race and socioeconomic status are complex factors that can influence perceptions of illness and health. Individuals from lower social strata and certain racial groups are more likely to experience discrimination and limited access to healthcare, leading to a distrust of the healthcare system. This distrust can further contribute to a lack of engagement in preventive measures.
In conclusion, perceptions of illness and health in lower social strata are influenced by social conditions and complex factors such as race and socioeconomic status. Addressing these underlying factors is crucial in improving health outcomes for individuals from lower social strata and reducing disparities in health. Preventive measures, such as vaccination, must be made accessible and promoted to this population to improve their health outcomes.
References
Link, B. G., & Phelan, J. (1995). Social conditions as fundamental causes of disease. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, Extra Issue, 80-94.
Williams, D. R., & Mohammed, S. A. (2009). Race, socioeconomic status, and health: Complexities, ongoing challenges.
