The Relationship between Social Factors and Depression
Sociology Essay
As part of this essay there will be explanation on two sociological theories, the conflict theory and the functionist theory, and the relationship between social factors and depression.
Depression or depressive disorder is a feeling of sadness “which happens to all of us” but in most cases the feeling of sadness passes over a short period of time, It becomes a mental health issue when the feeling of sadness starts to affect daily life (Norquist 2013). Depression is known as a condition of emotional dejection and withdrawal over a prolonged period of time (Anon, 2013).
The conflict theory is derived from Karl Marx idea that “class interests and the confrontations of power that they bring in their wake are the central determinant of social process” (Bancroft A Et Al 2010) which means that social class is what shapes the individual known as determinism. The conflict theory focuses on the conflicts within society is what shapes us as an individual. The conflict being that the higher you are in class the more resources you have available to you (Browne 1998). Which views the capitalist society as based on class inequality and the exploitation of one class by another for their own gain. For example depression is a health issue which affects society as the individual cannot work effectively for the “richer man” so they can reap the benefits. So within society if you suffer from depression you are no longer able to function “normally” within society, and when you seek help and advice from your doctor they are very quick to hand out medication as a quick fix so you can go back to functioning “normally” again resuming your role within society so the “richer man” can enjoy the benefits of the working classes labour. As a result of this the root problem of depression is not addressed and continues in a perpetual cycle with no optimal desired outcome for society, for example depression is more likely to return resulting in more sick time, a strain on the
As part of this essay there will be explanation on two sociological theories, the conflict theory and the functionist theory, and the relationship between social factors and depression.
Depression or depressive disorder is a feeling of sadness “which happens to all of us” but in most cases the feeling of sadness passes over a short period of time, It becomes a mental health issue when the feeling of sadness starts to affect daily life (Norquist 2013). Depression is known as a condition of emotional dejection and withdrawal over a prolonged period of time (Anon, 2013).
The conflict theory is derived from Karl Marx idea that “class interests and the confrontations of power that they bring in their wake are the central determinant of social process” (Bancroft A Et Al 2010) which means that social class is what shapes the individual known as determinism. The conflict theory focuses on the conflicts within society is what shapes us as an individual. The conflict being that the higher you are in class the more resources you have available to you (Browne 1998). Which views the capitalist society as based on class inequality and the exploitation of one class by another for their own gain. For example depression is a health issue which affects society as the individual cannot work effectively for the “richer man” so they can reap the benefits. So within society if you suffer from depression you are no longer able to function “normally” within society, and when you seek help and advice from your doctor they are very quick to hand out medication as a quick fix so you can go back to functioning “normally” again resuming your role within society so the “richer man” can enjoy the benefits of the working classes labour. As a result of this the root problem of depression is not addressed and continues in a perpetual cycle with no optimal desired outcome for society, for example depression is more likely to return resulting in more sick time, a strain on the