Death and dying - Essay Example

Download file to see previous pages... Sontag (1991) states that societal responses depend on social contexts rather than on the individual member of the society. The negative perceptions form the basis for excluding the targeted group from different social functions and contexts. Others go ahead to avoid being associated with the victims of the stigmatization.
Societal responses and views are predominantly expressed and shown through negative beliefs and attitudes towards this particular group. The society tends to compare the targeted individuals and groups with those who are not affected by the disease. It leads to the development of a given perception and view on the vulnerable, oppressed and stigmatized group will be manifested in the form of patronizing behavior that will directly or indirectly dictate how the group will interact with the rest of the society. In some instances, it communicates unsubstantiated opinions, ideas and views on the targeted group.
There are various aspects within the society that will directly or indirectly shape the view that will be associated with the targeted individuals and groups. One of the major issues that has been identified is the prevailing cultural practices and beliefs. Tadele & ‎ Kloos (2013) remarks that such cases are witnessed in societies where a given illness is associated with a given unacceptable behaviour. A very good example is the STDs that are viewed by most members of the society to come as a result of irresponsible sexual activities. When a group of individuals suffer from the disease, it will be generally held that such people have gone against moral codes. Tadele & ‎ Kloos (2013) note that such kinds of assumptions may have a negative impact on the health and wellbeing of the targeted individuals. The other issue that will influence the reaction that the society will have on a targeted group is the past experience that members of the society have had with a particular illness. When people and the society in general ...Download file to see next pagesRead More