Stanton K. answered • 06/22/20
BA with Distinctions and Honors in Sociology
Hi Sabunam,
To understand Talcot Parson's sick role and how it relates to deviance, we first have to connect it to the theory of structural functionalism. Functionalism is a macro level sociological theory developed by Herbert Spencer that frames society as the sum of its parts, which all work together to form the whole and fulfill the "biological and social needs" of the people within it (Lumen). Through functionalism, societies members or people have certain roles and norms of behavior in which they fit into to contribute to the collective good of all members, and also themselves. From this framework, the concepts of function and dysfunction are ways to assess and categorize the norms of behavior and roles, including work, attending school and other actions taken within society. Those who exhibit behavior or roles outside of the accepted norms can and do get labeled as deviant in relation to the society and its culture they are in.
Parson's sick role is a medical sociology theory, that is an expansion on functionalism and the concept of roles we enter within society. Because health is connected to productivity, being sick is a state of deviance through this framework and Parson believed that medical professionals should control or police this deviancy through healthcare and forms of medical intervention. Health in sociology is not just an individual state, but a social condition and role as well. By assuming the sick role, one is no longer immediately considered deviant. However, there are responsibilities and privileges they should assume to restore their health or not become deviant. Privileges that are afforded to sick persons include: taking time off from work or school, not having to attend expected social functions, spending more time sleeping etc. Their responsibilities are to restore their health or get better by taking advantage of these privileges while also seeking healthcare and a diagnosis, and taking the necessary medicine and other remedies if needed to become healthy again (study.com).
A simple way to understand this is that in functionalism, being non-productive without justification is a form of deviancy, but because we are human and do become sick, it is factored into our roles within society. As long as we assume this role and its obligations, in hopes that we will return to health and productivity, we are not considered deviant. Not sure what class you are in but I'd also like to ask you if you can think of ways in which this theory can be both beneficial and problematic.
Hope this helps!
https://courses.lumenlearning.com/alamo-sociology/chapter/functionalism/
https://study.com/academy/lesson/sick-role-theory-in-sociology-definition-lesson-quiz.html
