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Homeopathy 2003; 92(02): 77-83
DOI: 10.1016/S1475-4916(03)-00005-5
Original Paper

Homeopathic remedies as metaphors in family therapy. A narrative-based approach to homeopathy

M Konitzer
1   Department of General Practice, Medical School of Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, Hannover, Germany
,
A Renée
2   Technical Language Center, University of Hannover, Welfengarten 1, Hannover, Germany
,
T Doering
1   Department of General Practice, Medical School of Hannover, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, Hannover, Germany
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Abstract

Objective:  To examine a metaphorical, narrative model to explain the outcome of an homeopathic encounter involving the patient, practitioner and the homeopathic medicine.

Material and Methods:  The transcript of a videotaped doctor–patient interaction from a European doctor–patient communication study (EUROCOM) was analysed using qualitative methods.

Results:  Analysis demonstrates a narrative relationship between the protagonists in the therapeutic interaction, with the homeopathic medicine performing a metaphorical role.

Discussion:  The results justify further investigation of the narrative and metaphorical properties of the therapeutic encounter in homeopathy.

Keywords

homeopathy - metaphor - narrative-based medicine - qualitative research


Publication History

Received: 05 August 2002

Accepted: 11 November 2002

Article published online:
16 September 2021

© 2003. Faculty of Homeopathy. This article is published by Thieme.

Georg Thieme Verlag KG
Rüdigerstraße 14, 70469 Stuttgart, Germany

 

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