Experiencing And Explaining Disease

Second Edition

This book is a multidisciplinary account of the major factors influencing the ways in which states of wellness or illness are explained by professionals and experienced by lay people.

The book examines prevailing social norms affecting the status of the sick person; why are some stigmatised and blamed for their condition or excluded from normal social interactions, while others are considered brave or victims of environmental damage? What factors contribute to or alleviate pain and suffering?

This book will be an invaluable text for students of health studies, social work, social policy, medicine, nursing and the social sciences. It will also be important reading for a wide range of health professionals and carers.