Sociological Perspectives on Health and Illness

In the functionalist model, Parsons argued that illness is a form of deviance that disturbs the social function of a society.

Conflict theory argues that the economic and political structures of a society create social divisions, inequalities, and conflicts.

According to theorists working in the symbolic interactionist perspective, health and illness are socially constructed.

The labeling approach to health and illness claims that mental illness is manifested solely as a result of societal influence.