The Sick Role Concept

1. The Sick Role Concept

2. Structural-Functionalist Theory A group of researchers, many of whom were sociologists, whose understanding of American society focused on how society maintains the status quo [keeps things the same].

3. Talcott Parsons (1950s) Looked at illness as a social phenomenon Illness is a deviation from expected behavior and prevents individuals from fulfilling their normal role responsibilities What are role responsibilities? Therefore, illness is a different role that we play.

4. The Sick Role The Sick Role is a temporary role we take on when we are ill. We are not held responsible for the fact that we are ill and/or unable to do what we normally do. Characterized by Rights and Responsibilities: Rights: things you are allowed to do because you are ill and can�t do what you normally do. Responsibilities: things you must do because you are ill and, therefore, deviant. (Obligations)

5. Rights Exempt from �normal� social roles Depends on the nature and the severity of the illness. TEMPORARY Not held responsible for his or her condition Illness is beyond your control. Malfunction that needs to be fixed

6. Obligations/Responsibilities Must try to get well. Must view being sick as undesirable Must seek competent medical help and cooperate with treatment regimen. To Parsons, this meant going to a physician, and only a physician.

7. Problems with the Sick Role Are all illnesses temporary? Doesn�t apply very well to chronic illnesses or emotional health issues. Are all illnesses completely not the individual�s fault? What about addictions? What about exercise, alcohol, smoking, diet, etc. choices? Grounded in middle class values Does everyone have the same values? Bottom line: patient is passive and just follows the physicians instructions. No accountability.

8. Freidson�s Sociological Types of Illness Adds labeling theory to the mix 3 key variables: Responsibility of the person for their illness Seriousness of the illness How much does it interfere with your life? Legitimacy How does society view your illness? Do you deserve a break today?

9. Perceived Legitimacy Conditional legitimacy: Yes, you deserve a break, but it is time-limited. Unconditional legitimacy: Yes, you get a permanent break, because your condition isn�t going away. Illegitimate: No breaks. Your condition doesn�t merit any breaks STIGMA: treated badly by society. Not a full citizen?

10. Exemptions, Privileges & Obligations Exemptions: things you don�t have to do because you are sick Privileges: Things you get to do because you are sick that you wouldn�t normally be allowed to do. Obligations: responsibilities you have because you are sick