Which of the following is a key characteristic of alternative therapies?

Alternative therapies are characterized by their focus on holistic approaches, which consider the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—rather than solely addressing specific symptoms or diseases. This perspective aims to treat the individual comprehensively, understanding that various aspects of a person’s life can impact their health.

Holistic approaches in alternative therapies often include practices such as acupuncture, yoga, herbal remedies, and nutritional therapy, among others. These methods emphasize the integration of physical health with emotional and social well-being, highlighting the importance of lifestyle and environmental influences on health.

In contrast, options that suggest involvement with medication or surgical interventions are more aligned with conventional medical practices, which typically focus on specific illnesses or injuries. Thus, the emphasis on holistic care is what distinctly identifies alternative therapies as a separate field.