
Lay definitions of health. Dr Dominic Upton.
Lay definitions. • What do the lay public (or general public) consider health to be? • How does this differ according to different groups? • Why is this relevant in health care?
Did you notice… • Difference between upper and lower classes? • “Getting through the day” was working class definition and “Being active” was middle class.
Implications. • Social class difference in how people define their health. • Hence, those attending clinics and asking for help will differ between the classes. • Different definitions depending upon age, education and gender.
Importance of understanding lay beliefs • Insight • Health promotion • Informal care • Patient status