This thesis was designed to explore and describe the beliefs and behaviours of young adults (parents or future parents) in relation to immunization. Data were collected via in-depth interviews with 36 young adults (current university students) that resulted in more than 600 pages of documnetation for detailed analysis. Nursing and non-nursing student informants were compared under the categories of young adults who delay or refuse immunizations due to alternative health practices, vaccine concerns or religion. What emerged from the study was that young adults displayed lack of knowledge and disinterest about the immune system, immunizations and communicable diseases. This display of apathy towards disease prevention could subsequently contribute to a decrease in the population's herd immunity in the next generation. A review of more than 300 published journal articles and books was completed and integrated into a mosaic of Canadian immunization practice. Policy recommendations based on these findings are presented. / x, 223 leaves : ill. ; 28 cm.