InfoSearched
Published -
- February 7, 2020
- 6:00 pm
Why do some parents reject vaccines, despite evidence that they’ve helped generations of children stay healthy?
When sociologist Jennifer Reich started interviewing parents about this growing trend, she realized it wasn’t as simple as being ignorant or anti-science. In this fascinating talk, she explains why this movement is the symptom of a much bigger problem — our broken beliefs about parenting & health. Jennifer Reich is Professor of Sociology at the University of Colorado Denver. Her research examines how individuals and families weigh information and strategize their interactions with the state and service providers, particularly as they relate to healthcare and welfare. Over the last decade, she has examined how parents come to reject vaccines for their children, in dialog with physicians, complementary healthcare providers, activists, and researchers. She wrote Calling the Shots: Why Parents Reject Vaccines. She & her husband have three children.
What are some legitimate concerns that vaccine-skeptical parents may have, and how can medical professionals address them?
As someone who was raised in a family that prioritized vaccination, I was initially shocked by the controversial decision not to vaccinate children. But after spending time with parents who opt out of their children’s vaccinations, I’ve come to a deeper understanding of their perspective, and have gleaned some valuable insights into why they make the choices they do.
First and foremost, it’s important to recognize that parents who choose not to vaccinate their children are not inherently anti-science or anti-medicine. In many cases, they are simply seeking information and clarity about the potential benefits and risks of vaccines, and feel that their concerns are not being adequately addressed by medical professionals or mainstream media. Rather than dismissing these parents as misguided or irrational, we should listen to their questions and concerns with empathy and openness.
At the same time, however, it’s critical to distinguish between legitimate concerns and misinformation. Many of the arguments against vaccines are rooted in faulty science or conspiracy theories, and it’s essential to fact-check claims before taking them at face value. For example, while some parents worry that vaccines cause autism, this notion has been thoroughly debunked by a vast array of research studies.
Another important takeaway from my conversations with vaccine-skeptical parents is that vaccines are not a one-size-fits-all solution. While vaccines have proven benefits for preventing communicable diseases, they can also have side effects or be contraindicated for certain individuals. For example, parents with a family history of severe reactions to vaccines may feel more hesitant to vaccinate, and may need tailored information and guidance from their doctor or healthcare provider.
Finally, I’ve learned that respectful dialogue and information-sharing is critical in bridging the gap between vaccine skeptics and supporters. Rather than approaching these conversations with judgment or defensiveness, we should try to create a safe, open space to discuss these complex issues. We can acknowledge the concerns and experiences of vaccine-skeptical parents while also sharing accurate, science-based information about vaccine safety and efficacy.
Overall, my interactions with vaccine-skeptical parents have taught me the importance of approaching this contentious issue with nuance, compassion, and a commitment to evidence-based medicine. By working together to address concerns and share accurate information, we can help ensure the health and safety of all children, vaccinated or not.
