“Describe and discuss how your personal perspective has been challenged or developed in relation to the growth, acceptability and professionalisation of CAM during your study of Complimentary and Alternative Medicine. UK Open University Level 2 / Year 2 Speciality: Health and Social Care Complimentary and Alternative Medicine Grade: 2:1 Date: June 2011 K221 – Perspectives on Complementary and Alternative Medicine.”

A dynamic growth of perspective informed by the range of critical issues within complementary and alternative medicine was possible as I negotiated my journey through the course materials of K221. The choice to launch into my investigation was informed by preconceptions that CAM had much to contribute to the sphere of health and well-being in some areas, but needed much support to assert its validity in others. I met with various developments in my understanding at each turn along my pathway, allowing the reinforcement of some views alongside fundamental challenges to others.

I shall explore key elements around the growth in the popularity of CAM through investigating the impact the therapeutic relationship has on users experiencing treatment. The contentious area of the efficacy of CAM can find fertile ground for new insight within the study of homeopathy and efforts to both prove …(short extract)