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Journal of Health Psychology
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Making Sense of Illness: The Experiences of Users of Complementary Medicine

Tina Cartwright

University of Westminster, UK, T.Cartwright{at}wmin.ac.uk

Rebecca Torr

University of Bath, UK

The present study investigated the experiences of users of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) using a qualitative approach. In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 frequent users and analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). Results indicated that the patient-practitioner relationship and explanatory frameworks provided by CAM were perceived as important components of the therapeutic process, irrespective of treatment efficacy. CAM served a variety of functions beyond the explicit relief of symptoms by increasing energy and relaxation, facilitating coping and enhancing self/other awareness. It is therefore important that these wider effects are taken into account when evaluating complementary medicine in order to reflect patients’ experiences accurately.

Key Words: complementary medicine • coping • outcomes • qualitative

Journal of Health Psychology, Vol. 10, No. 4, 559-572 (2005)
DOI: 10.1177/1359105305053425
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