Predictors of College Students' Use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Abstract

This study assessed the use of complementary and alternative medicine among college students (N=913), the relationships between health locus of control with use of complementary and alternative medicine, and health locus of control with attitudes toward complementary and alternative medicine and what predicts their use. A majority (66%, n=913) of students reported using complementary and alternative medicine, with higher use found among older students (p=.006) and female students (p=.01). Holistic attitude and control were strong predictors for college students use of complementary and alternative medicine, and there was a significant correlation between internal locus of control and the use of complementary and alternative medicine (r=.35, p=.01). College students were more likely to use complementary and alternative medicine when compared with samples from other studies. Campus health care providers and college curriculum planners may need to include complementary and alternative medicine services and education to help students maintain health and wellness.