BACH 6326 Society and Health

3 SCH. This course is based on the premise that social structure (norms, status, institutions, culture) is a fundamental cause of health and illness. Disparities in health and health care can be reduced by focusing on macro-level forces that produce an unequal distribution and access to resources. Therefore, this course analyzes social determinants of population health such as social class, gender, race/ethnicity, family, neighborhoods, and social institutions. Then, we will discuss the consequences and explanations of these patterns which will include reviewing the empirical and theoretical literature on mechanisms and processes that mediate between social factors and their health effects. This course concludes with strategies to promote public health through social action and social research. Prerequisites: BACH 6300 or permission from the instructor. Letter Grade