Block 1 : Theories - Sick Role

Page 1

Concept - Talcott Parsons (1951)

Accepting sickness gives you privileges but also requires obligations

It is not your fault for being ill and are not held responsible for what has happened to you. You have an obligation to try and recover from the illness as quickly as possible and not regard it as a good thing

You do not have to take part in daily activities that are usually required of you

You should seek professional help for your illness and co-operate with your doctor and follow all treatment programmes to make a full recovery

Sometimes claiming sick role is hard - invisible illness - e.g. back pain

Can be seen to be faking illness

The Sick Role