Using theory to guide undergraduate education of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM)

Effective complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) education in American colleges is needed. Research shows college students use many forms of CAM, from body-based methods to prayer for health. CAM studies among this population also suggest that college students use CAM at rates higher than the general population. This is consistent with findings that show education level to be a significant predictor of CAM use. Application of tested theoretical constructs can help health educators provide undergraduate students with learning experiences that prepare them for making safe and healthy choices in relation to CAM. In this session, discuss the implications of various approaches to CAM education, learn what theory-based research has revealed about predictors of CAM use, and come away with new insights for developing and enhancing undergraduate CAM education in America.