Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: In the past two decades, many complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) groups have actively purused professional projects in the hopes of increasing control over their occupation and gaining legitimacy. Overlooked in many of studies of the CAM professionalisation process is how internal divisions must be overcome before CAM groups can present a "united" front to mainstream medicine and state regulatory bodies. Our study examines the professionalisation process of three CAM groups, naturopaths, Traditional Chinese Medicine/acupuncturists, and homeopaths, in Ontario Canada. We derived data for our analysis from interviews with all the senior leaders of the schools and professional associations of the three CAM groups. Using Gieryn's (1983) concept of boundary-work, we show how the CAM groups are using the language of medical science to win internal (and external) battles over who is the "legitimate" naturopath, TCM/acupuncturist and homeopath. We trace the infusion of medical science in four common strategies used by the three CAM groups; improving quality of education, developing high practice standards, engaging in peer-reviewed research, and increasing group cohesion. Although the strategies used by the CAM groups may move their profession project forward, we end with some concerns about what the CAM groups may lose due to their increasing reliance on medical science as a legitimating strategy.