Views of Mothers with Children with Special Needs on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Methods

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to reveal the views of mothers of children with special needs on complementary and alternative medicine methods. Method: This study utilized the phenomenological design, a qualitative research technique. Participants in this study were selected using the criterion sampling method, a purposive sampling technique. Data collected through semi-structured interview questions prepared by the researcher were analyzed using the content analysis method. Findings: Codes were generated based on the answers of the participants to each research question, and 14 themes encompassing these codes were identified. These themes and codes were examined under the titles of the views of the participants on complementary and alternative medicine methods, information about the methods practiced according to the special need type and the underlying reasons, characteristics perceived as beneficial and harmful in these methods, and factors that motivate participants to use these methods. Nearly all participants were observed to apply these methods. It was reported they resorted to these methods for the child's disability type or for illnesses that develop alongside the disability due to the solution-seeking idea and receiving guidance from various sources, and found practices beneficial. Discussion: In children with special needs, complementary and alternative medicine methods are observed to vary based on types of disabilities and regional differences, and usage of these methods has been gradually increasing recently. Considering their potentially serious consequences for children, it is essential to establish a legal and evidence-based implementation procedure for these methods.