Chronic Illness (Sociology)

Question 1

Crisis Approach/Labelling Theory

Answer 1

Describes how social reaction to a chronic condition shapes an individual’s lived experience to a greater extent than the physical limitation itself

Diagnosis represents a deviation from the social norm of healthiness

Has an immediate and irreversible impact on identity

Primary deviation - own perception of illness results in limitations on life

Sociocultural meaning and stereotypes shape how others regard and approach the individual

Imagined social reaction impacts the individuals self identity

Secondary deviation - Individual conforms to the socio cultural stereotypes of the illness

Individuals skillset/confidence and social participation declines

Which then affects the individuals perception on the limitations on their life

Question 2

Theory of Biological Disruption

Answer 2

Diagnosis results in loss of self due the the physical and social effects of disease

Trajectory of struggle where the individual attempt to maintain normality

Diagnosis leads to the renegotiation of the individuals relationships

Individual does not simply accept the diagnosis

Active coping and renegotiation- respond and adapt and maintain a sense of normality

Question 3

What is enacted stigma?

Answer 3

Societal reaction to a diagnosis which may lead to actual discrimination

Question 4

What is felt stigma?

Answer 4

Imagined social reaction shapes individuals sense of self