Module: SOC5102-20 Health Mind, Body, Society

Level: 5

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Andrew Smart

Module Tutor Contact Details: a.smart@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module:

This is a cross-disciplinary module that examines issues surrounding health and illness, using insights from sociology, psychology and food studies. Health has individual, social and political significance and the module addresses how health-related behaviours are shaped by intersections between people and their social contexts, considering a variety of health-related issues that reflect the expertise and research activities of staff from across the university. This module will help prepare you for advanced postgraduate studies and/or graduate work that require you to engage with and respond to issues relating to health and health inequalities.

2. Outline syllabus:

The curriculum will be drawn from topics which may include:

• Sociological, psychological and biophysical theories and concepts for understanding difference in physical and mental health

• Social determinants of health

• Patterns of health inequalities

• Choice and reproductive technologies

• Health tracking and the quantified self

• Genomics, race and medicine

• Cross-cultural influences in health

• Trauma and its effects on health

• Doctor-patient communication

• Health and work

• Obesity; food and health

3. Teaching and learning activities:

Teaching and learning is centred upon core readings (introduced on Minerva with a small number of key questions). The module will be delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars and workshops with discussion of readings, organised debates and use of AV materials to encourage deep learning.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Essay (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Essay (2500 words)

• % Weighting: 50%