Factors related to the utilization of services of herbolaryos, espiritistas and psychic healers among selected individuals

• Main Authors: Esteban, Ma. Luisa C., Lumabas, Lenora L., Macalagay, Mary Vivienne J.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 1992
• Subjects: Quacks and quackery; Faith-cure; Healers; Therapeutics, Suggestive
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_bachelors/9838
• Institution: De La Salle University

The present study explored the family health beliefs, early unique experiences, concept of illness, and locus of control of those who patronize and utilize the services offered by herbolaryos, espiritistas, and psychic healers. A sample of twelve subjects (four subjects from each type) was chosen using the snowball technique and direct referral from healer technique. It included patients of herbolaryos, espiritistas, and psychic healers who were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Subsequently, the subjects' locus of control was also determined using the Rotter's Internal-External Locus of Control Scale. The results of the study showed that certain factors are influencing the utilization of indigenous health agents and these include early and recent unique experiences, family health beliefs and the role of significant others. Another variable used in the study, one's concept of illness, was found not to be an actual determinant in the utilization. Moreover, the level of locus of control appeared not to be conclusive in as far as determining whether or not persons who would most likely seek the services of these healers are either internal or external.