There Are No Children Here: An Analysis

What does it mean to be a healthy person? Health is not simply the absence of disease. It more accurately is an individual’s physical, mental and social well-being as a whole (Skolnik, 2013). Kotlowritz’s goal in writing this text was to spread awareness and recognition of issues faced in impoverished areas. He also condemned the common thought that these issues only concern Third-World countries. These issues are found internationally, including in the United States, a country recognized as a high -income country and an active member of the Organization for Cooperation and Development (OECD) (Skolnik, 2013). This text encourages people to become more consciousness and promotes individuals to come together as a community to act. It is important
In other words, it expressed the effects of a person’s “economic, social and work status” (Skolnik, 2013, p. 20). For example, LaJoe experienced negative socio-economic impacts after she lost her Public Aid. She had stayed home with her children for the past seven years and lacked the skillset required to enter the already limited job market (Kotlowitz, 1992). The lack of skill set puts her at a disadvantage in terms of socio-economic measures as she faced both economic and employment instability. “People with higher educational attainment have higher socioeconomic status and control than those who have lower status” (Skolnik, 2013, p. 20). People with higher education have the resources to positively influence their socioeconomic status such as they are more likely to become employed than those who received little education and in consequence, it leads better health outcomes. Education can lead to people having higher incomes and thus, a better chance to live in healthful neighbours, safe living conditions and access to both nutritional dense foods as well as better health care (Skolnik, 2013). Moreover, higher education can promote the participation in the community as one is able to make informed
Determinants of health are all connected and are heavily influenced by each other. There is a strong correlation between one’s life circumstances and their health status. Creating a sense of awareness of these factors such as environmental features, socio-economical aspects, and the influence of governance and policies can help individuals prevent more issues from arising. Thus, it creates a foundation for positive strides towards improving the life circumstances in disadvantaged areas, enabling them to be part of the global change community. Personally, this text provides an enriching perspective to further understand global health issues. It encourages me to be further aware of my lifestyle and its implications on my health. Moreover, it has inspired me to be involved in my community and to expand my knowledge on current global health challenges to others to be considered an active part of the solution to create a prosperous world for all