1.3.3  Social component

Farmers feed their cattle with hay.
Figure 1.3  A social role can be developed while taking part in communal activities such as harvesting or other activities where teamwork is important. (Photo: Ali Wyllie)

The social component of health is considered to be the ability to make and maintain ‘acceptable’ and ‘proper’ interactions and communicate with other people within the social environment. This component also includes being able to maintain satisfying interpersonal relationships and being able to fulfill a social role. Having a social role is the ability that people have to maintain their own identity while sharing, cooperating, communicating and enjoying the company of others (Figure 1.3). This is really important when participating in friendships and taking a full part in family and community life.

  • Which of the following examples could be considered to contribute to social health? Explain your answers.

    • a.Mourning when a close family member dies
    • b.Going to a football match or involvement in a community meeting
    • c.Celebrating traditional festivals within your community
    • d.Shopping in the market
    • e.Creating and maintaining friendship.

  • In reality all these events could have a social component and help towards building people’s social view of health. They all involve interacting with others and gaining support, friendship and in many instances joy from being with other people.

1.3.2  Emotional component

1.4  Health education