Gender, Inequality and Health

Question 1

Why do women end up being prone to illness more than men?

Answer 1

1) Biological: Difficulties in reproductive health
2) Ageing: Usually live longer so are more prone to old age associated illnesses
3) Materials: Seen as “carers” frequently which have implications for paid employment

Question 2

What 4 ways are men more susceptible to illness and death than women?

Answer 2

1) Alcohol: Men usually drink more
2) Smoking: Men more likely to take up smoking
3) Men more likely to take risks
4) Men more likely to have a high risk occupation

Question 3

What is the disengagement theory?

Answer 3

Theory that people disengage themselves from roles in society they previously held

Question 4

What is third age theory?

Answer 4

Time period associated after retirement with health, vigour and optimism

Question 5

How is social class associated with

a) Life expectancy
b) Smoking
c) Mortality and Unemployment

Answer 5

a) Higher the socio-economic classification, the higher the birth life expectancy
b) Lower classes tend to be more likely to smoke
c) Unemployment have greater mortality risk