The purpose of this investigation is to test the explanatory power of the role of self-efficacy and the Health Belief Model
as it contributes to CAM (contemporary and
alternative medicine) use by active duty military members. The investigation is also framed within the perspective of a consumer decision making study and consumer behavior study with regards to the use of CAM within this sample of the U.S. population. During the course of this investigation, the prevalence of CAM use among U.S. Naval personnel stationed aboard an Atlantic fleet ship and the reasons behind their decision to use CAM, is also catalogued. The research tests variables important to understanding CAM use within the context of the Health Belief Model. Data is collected via researcher-administered surveys, based on 'Receptivity', a survey developed and modified from the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) used by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. Abstract Chapter 1 Introduction Introduction to CAM Alternative Medical Systems Mind-Body Interventions Biologically Based Therapies Manipulative and Body-Based Methods Energy Therapies Introduction to the Problem Background of the study Statement of the Problem Research Hypothesis Definition of Terms Assumptions and Limitations Chapter 2 Literature Review Introduction History of HBM Research History of CAM Research Growing acceptance within the medical community Demographic Profile of CAM Users Reasons for Using Alternative Medicine HBM Overview Conclusion Chapter 3 Methodology Introduction Instrument Pilot Study Research Design Study Population Design Sample