Sociology assumes that a functioning society depends upon healthy people and upon controlling illness. In examining social constructs of health and illness, sociologist Talcott Parsons identified what he called “the sick role,” or the social definition of, the behaviour of, and the behaviour toward those whom society defines as ill. Parsons identified four components to the sick role. Society allows those who fulfil these criteria to assume the sick role, but society loses sympathy for and denies the role to those who appear to like it or those who do not seek treatment. In other cases, family and friends may show sympathy for a while, but lose patience with the victim and assume he or she is seeking attention or is a hypochondriac. Although many believe that science alone determines illness, this sociological-view points out that society determines sickness as well. This comprehensive book is a stimulating and thought-provoking essential guide for students in health, nursing and sociology schools.