School Of Social Sciences And PsychologyCulture, Health and Social ChangeWestern Sydney University Unit Code: 101324.2
Discipline: STUDIES IN HUMAN SOCIETY
Student Contribution Band: 1
Level: 2
Credit Points: 10
Assumed Knowledge
Knowledge of sociological concepts and theories or 40 credit points of completed study
Equivalent Units
25026 - Culture and Health
About this Unit
What is health? What is culture? In what ways is health ‘cultural’? This unit focuses on students’ own health beliefs and practices to discover which cultural factors influence their ideas and actions in relation to health. It makes comparisons with the health beliefs and practices of others – in Australian and other societies – using the case studies and examples (e.g., food or diet & eating, medical and non-medical healing rituals). It develops a critique of contemporary health promotion in western culture. Students are invited to critically and creatively consider issues relating to culture, health, diversity and change. The emphasis of this unit is on the importance of cross cultural understanding, non-discriminatory practice and positive interaction within and between cultures in the 21st century. Students are encouraged to investigate commonplace assumptions about their world and the future.