As you write your essays, consider the following: The synopsis should demonstrate an understanding o ...

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As you write your essays, consider the following: The synopsis should demonstrate an understanding of the main argument/contribution of the reading and should connect the reading to broader course issues. How does the book advance your sociological thinking? How does the book challenge your assumptions? The goal of these papers is to explore the social and cultural aspects of mental health. Analytical Response #1: What do the authors/presenters in the videos argue about the current state of mental health/illness in our culture? What is the link between mental health and identity? (1-2 page single spaced or 4 pages double space) Do you agree or disagree? (Your opinions should draw on and engage with the arguments presented in the videos.) How do social/cultural forces shape our understanding of mental health? How are mental health diagnoses shaped by social/cultural factors? How do mental health diagnoses matter for our identities? (The 2nd video, "Pathologizing Normal," focuses a lot on issues of gender and gender identity. However, their discussion applies to many issues of mental health. For example, how do experiences of anxiety become central to who we are and how we see ourselves?) A Closer Look At The Modern Mental Health Crisis - Abigail Shrier (youtube.com) EPISODE 110: Pathologizing Normal: The Lure of Identity Labels & Diagnoses (youtube.com)