The sociology of the seeking the cure of the mind, body and soul: Users of the complementary medicine and social ethos

The issue of health, the meanings attributed to health, and the evolving nature of health have always been central topics in human life. Therefore, every new approach developed towards health can directly impact human life. Throughout the ages, various methods have been offered to individuals' 'search for a cure' for diseases under different names such as traditional, modern, complementary, supportive, alternative, and holistic in the diagnosis and treatment processes of diseases. The behaviors and attitudes exhibited by individuals in response to these solution methods can vary from society to society. This research, designed with a mixed-methods approach, was conducted using survey and in-depth interview techniques. The aim of this study is to examine the public's awareness and knowledge levels regarding complementary medicine and treatments, their preference status, the experiences of individuals using new forms of complementary medicine, and their views, attitudes, and behaviors towards healthcare services. To this end, a survey was conducted with 400 individuals residing in the province of Antalya. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 individuals who have experienced complementary treatments and therapies such as bioresonance, meridian therapy, and andulation therapy. The quantitative data obtained were analyzed using the SPSS23 program, including frequency, chi-square, ANOVA, and regression tables and tests. For the analysis of qualitative data, the MAXQDA2020 program was used, and after coding, categorizing, and theming processes, the data were analyzed descriptively. To support the qualitative data, the life narratives of the individuals were also included. According to the research results, the awareness, usage, and impact dimensions of complementary medicine and treatments can be interpreted through various variables in both the quantitative and qualitative sections. The level of awareness for treatments listed in the Regulation on Traditional and Complementary Medicine (GETAT) is higher compared to treatments not included in the regulation. The reasons individuals prefer these treatments and the benefits they perceive are generally evaluated positively (staying healthy, alternative solutions, improving quality of life, etc.). Additionally, it is understood that these treatments have different effects on individuals both physically (enhancing body perception, loving one's body, improvement in body form, etc.) and psychologically (mental balance, renewal, motivation, awareness, etc.). The majority of participants believe that the future of complementary medicine and treatments is promising and have a strong belief that this field will develop with more diverse treatments. Keywords: Health, Health sociology, Complementary medicine, Frequency medicine, Mixed method.