Value differences in orthodox and complementary medicine patients

Author(s): VINCENT, C.

Abstract: Complementary (alternative) medicine is sometimes associated with a less materialistic, more ecologically aware lifestyle which may reflect distinct underlying values. This study set out to determine whether people choose to visit an orthodox medical GP or complementary homoeopathic practitioner partly because they have different values. About 50 patients from each group completed a two page questionnaire which required them to rate various terminal and instrumental values. Once demographic differences were controlled, it seemed clear that there were few value differences between them. It was concluded that value differences are not a major factor in choosing different medical practitioners. Complementary medical patients in the study were not distinguished by adherence to new-age views or a particular world view.

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