Parsons' sick role
According to Talcott Parsons, a person in the sick role is expected to:
Answer B: explanation for every choice
A
Exemption from usual obligations is one of the rights of the sick role.
B
Correct. The sick person is excused from normal duties only if they seek help and try to recover.
C
Seeking competent help is an obligation, not something to avoid.
D
The exemption is temporary and depends on trying to recover.
TakeawaySick role: temporary exemption, in exchange for seeking help and trying to recover.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID ps142.