social construction of illness

The social construction of illness refers to how society’s beliefs, values, and culture influence how we define, experience, and respond to health issues. It suggests that what is considered "illness" isn’t just based on biological facts but also on social norms, perceptions, and priorities. For example, certain conditions might be more recognized or stigmatized depending on cultural attitudes or available treatments. This perspective highlights that illness is not solely a biological condition but also shaped by societal context, affecting diagnosis, treatment, and support systems.