Document 2034
 DOCN  M94A2034
 TI    Holism: the other voice of AIDS activism.
 DT    9412
 AU    Elbaz G; MHRA, NDRI, CUNY, NYC 10013.
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):396 (abstract no. PD0193). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370541
 AB    OBJECTIVE: The present research describes the ideology and strategy of
       holistic AIDS activists. METHODS: The research was conducted on the
       Alternative and Holistic Treatment Committee members of the New York
       City-based activist group AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power or ACT UP. A
       survey was conducted on a non-probability sample to delineate the
       socioeconomic profile of the members. Semi-structured interviews spell
       out the activists' ideology. Finally, a three-year ethnographic study
       reveals their tactics and strategies. RESULTS: Holistic activists are
       middle class with a high level of education. They argue that only a
       holistic approach, which takes into account psychological, sociological
       and cultural factors, can comprehend and resolve the complexities of a
       condition such as AIDS. They construe AIDS as a disease of the immune
       system which must be healed by using natural substances such as herbs,
       immune-enhancing diets, as well as by reconstructing an environment free
       of stress. Methodological differences exist amongst holistic activists.
       Some argue that the scientific methodology essentially defeats the
       purpose of the holistic approach by breaking down realities into
       separate variables. Others argue that alternative treatments can validly
       be tested scientifically. Lack of research funds, argue the activists,
       prevent the testing of those treatments. Both groups, however, perceive
       high-powered scientists as a political impediment to their approach.
       Just as in a political conflict, they use the political process and
       civil disobedience to promote their holistic paradigm. DISCUSSION AND
       CONCLUSIONS: Holistic activists have contributed to the shift of
       research focus from a strictly virological paradigm to a broader
       perspective that takes into account cofactors and focuses on
       strengthening the immune system. They have also been partially credited
       for the creation of the Office of Alternative Medicine at the National
       Institutes of Health. More research efforts are needed to recognize the
       potential benefits of a holistic approach.
 DE    Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/PREVENTION & CONTROL/
       *REHABILITATION  Alternative Medicine  Comprehensive Health Care
       *Holistic Health  Human  New York City  Politics  Power (Psychology)
       Research  *Self-Help Groups  *Urban Population  MEETING ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).