Examples Of Social Construction Of Health

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An example of social construction that Conrad and Barker (2011) use of woman’s health is in the early 19th century pregnant woman were discouraged from driving or dancing for the fear of harming the unborn child but today they are discouraged from smoking or drinking alcohol. Health is a relative concept which varies according to age, lifestyle, personal circumstances, culture, environment etc. What counts as health is a social construct – is it a result of individual, social and cultural interpretations and perceptions. At first glance, the concept of a social construction of illness does not seem to make sense. If you are ill you are ill however, it is not that simple for example, who decides what illness is you? medical professionals?