Read Item F below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 9 - 2018 - Paper 2

To evaluate the view that social class differences in health chances are primarily the result of cultural factors, we first need to understand what cultural factors encompass. Cultural factors include values, beliefs, and attitudes prevalent within a social class that influence health behaviors. For instance, lower social classes may have different values regarding health and diet, possibly resulting in poorer health outcomes due to less emphasis on preventive healthcare.

However, while cultural factors do play a significant role, it is crucial to consider material factors as well. Material factors encompass tangible resources such as income, access to healthcare, education, and living conditions. These factors are often intertwined with cultural aspects, as lower-income families may lack access to education about healthy lifestyles, thus perpetuating cycles of poor health.

Arguments supporting cultural factors:

1. Attitudes toward Health: Individuals from lower social classes may have fatalistic views about health, leading to lower engagement in preventive measures. Research often suggests that cultural norms can dictate lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, significantly impacting health outcomes.
2. Socialization: From a young age, children learn these cultural values, which can be hard to change, making cultural factors a powerful force in shaping health behaviors.

Arguments supporting material factors:

1. Access to Resources: Families with higher income can afford healthier food options, fitness facilities, and regular medical check-ups, which is often not feasible for those in lower socioeconomic groups.
2. Environmental Influence: Material factors also include the environment in which individuals live. High-crime areas or neighborhoods lacking recreational facilities can discourage physical activity and promote unhealthy eating due to the limited availability of resources.

In conclusion, while cultural factors certainly influence health-related behaviors, it is imperative to recognize the critical role of material factors. Health disparities between social classes are likely a result of the interaction between cultural beliefs and material conditions, making it insufficient to attribute health outcomes solely to cultural factors. A comprehensive approach to addressing health inequalities must consider both dimensions.