Toward a Sociological Understanding of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use
Publication: The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Volume 14, Issue Number 6
Abstract
Background and objectives: The wide array of treatments and modalities comprising complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) represent a growing option for many individuals. Seeking to better understand this, much research has centered on identifying sociodemographic (e.g., age, gender, race) or social–psychologic (e.g., absorption, depression, coping) correlates of using CAM therapies. In contrast, sociological perspectives recognize the influence of larger-scale, external forces on individuals' motivations to seek alternative or complementary care.
Aim: This paper, then, illustrates current and potential sociological approaches to understanding CAM use, and the importance of social forces that influence persons' decisions to utilize (or not) “unconventional” medical care.
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Published In
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine
Volume 14 • Issue Number 6 • July 2008
Pages: 777 - 783
PubMed: 18578592
Copyright
© 2008 Mary Ann Liebert, Inc.
History
Published online: 6 August 2008
Published in print: July 2008
Published ahead of print: 25 June 2008
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