Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Sociological approaches refer to the study and analysis of health behaviors from a social perspective, considering how societal factors such as culture, social norms, and institutions influence individuals' health-related choices.
Related terms
Social norms: Social norms are unwritten rules or expectations within a society that determine acceptable behaviors. They play a significant role in influencing individuals' health behaviors.
Cultural factors: Cultural factors encompass beliefs, values, customs, and traditions shared by a group of people. These factors strongly influence an individual's attitudes and behaviors towards health.
Institutional influences: Institutional influences refer to the impact of organizations or institutions such as schools, workplaces, and healthcare systems on individuals' health behaviors. These structures shape the opportunities and constraints individuals face when making choices about their well-being.