HDFS 480Health Disparities: Context, Causes, and Consequences

3 credits · Human Development and Family Studies · Penn State

In this course, students will explore the role of social and physical environments on individual and familial health and well-being using a social determinant of health framework. Specifically, students will learn about and evaluate the impact of socio-economic status, racial/ethnic minority status, income inequality, social networks and social support, social capital, and neighborhoods on health outcomes and mortality in the U.S.. Students will learn about medically underserved populations, the processes leading to disparate health outcomes, and policies and practices that can reduce disparities in health outcomes. This course provides important contextual understanding for students interested in health careers or those seeking to advocate for policies and programs that promote health and wellbeing.