Abstract
The definitions and understandings of what it means to be normal and healthy is often informed by somewhat ambiguous definitions and distinctions that perpetuate structural violence against a variety of groups. An implicit hierarchy is often assumed in healthcare discussions where at one extreme exists understanding of “normal and healthy” individuals who are presented in stark contrast to “abnormal and unhealthy” individuals. The ideology underpinning the construction of what is perceived to be “normal and healthy” has its roots in ableist and xenophobic rhetoric which must be dismantled to create accessible and equitable healthcare for everyone. A theme common to all subsequent examples is that the standard, normative body comprises particular linguistic or able-bodied understandings to the exclusion of another more comprehensive construction accounting for the variation of human existence. Through various examples this work explores the historical context informing understandings of the normative body and demonstrates how this understanding hinders development of accessible and equitable healthcare access for all individuals. The narrative begins with an examination of linguistic divergence and how this can lead to medical inequalities when Western biomedicine enforces the aforementioned sociohistorical hierarchy of what is defined as normal. This conceptualization of normality has been weaponized against minoritized populations. Then, examinations of contemporary understanding of the normative body are presented. This normative body can be understood as existing beyond a somatic one to include a variety of cultural practices which are undertaken by this body.
Presenters
Jennifer Carson GonzálezStudent, Doctor of Medicine, Carle Illinois College of Medicine at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Theme
2024 Special Focus—Health for Democracy, Democracy for Health
KEYWORDS
Social Medicine, Normative Body, Healthcare, Language, Disability, Culture, Minoritized Group
Digital Media
This presenter hasn’t added media.
Request media and follow this presentation.
