MCAT Social and Behavioral Sciences

An exploration of the psychological, social, and cultural factors that influence human health and behavior, tailored for MCAT preparation.

Advanced Topics

Social Stratification and Inequality

The Layers of Society

Social stratification refers to the ranking of individuals and groups in any given society. It’s based on factors like wealth, education, race, and occupation.

Types of Stratification

  • Class: Based on economic standing
  • Status: Based on prestige or social honor
  • Power: Control over resources and decision-making

Health Disparities

Inequality leads to differences in access to care, exposure to risk factors, and overall health outcomes.

Addressing Inequality

Healthcare professionals can advocate for policies and practices that reduce disparities and improve patient care for marginalized populations.

Examples

  • Patients from low-income backgrounds face barriers to accessing preventive care.

  • Doctors advocate for community health initiatives in underserved neighborhoods.

In a Nutshell

Social inequality creates gaps in health, opportunity, and well-being.