000			02857 a2200241 4500
005			20260717091858.0
082			_aTH 378.242 L784 2026
100	1		_aZuniga, Zyrille Dorin M.
245			_aThe lived experiences of embalmers in the death care profession / _cZyrille Dorin M. Zuniga, Sherylmae D. Santillana, Jessie Lyn M. Alentajan, Owen N. Esler, Liza Lea M. Espiritu, Arabella A. Gallego
264		1	_aSibalom, Antique : _bUniversity of Antique, _c2026
300			_aviii, 129 pages : _billustrations ; _c28 cm
504			_aIncludes bibliographical references.
520			_aAbstract The work of embalmers is essential yet often overlooked in Philippine society. As the individuals responsible for preparing the deceased with dignity and supporting grieving families. embalmers navigate cmotional, physical, and social challenges that remain largely unrecognized. This study explored the lived experiences of licensed embalmers in San Jose and Sibalom, Antique, and examined how they create meaning from their work in the death-care profession. A qualitative phenomenological design was employed, anc six licensed embalmers were purposively selected. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis. Six themes emerged: (a) occupational health, (b) work struggles, (c) social consequences of death related profession, (d) building self-worth, (e) service with compassion, and (f realizations about life. Participants described initial fear, sleep disturbance, and emotiona discomfort during their_ first encounters with the deceased. The work struggles they experienced intensified their workload, exposing them to extreme physical anc psychological strain while receiving little recognition. They also recounted experiences of public stigma and stereotyped SO from others. Despite these challenges. embalmers expressed pride in their profession, a strong sense of duty, and deep compassion for the families they serve. Their constant exposure to death brought about meaningful reflections on life's fragility and the importance of valuing one's time and relationships. Overall findings highlight embalming as a deeply human profession-one that requires not only technical skill but emotional resilience, empathy, and ethical commitment. The study underscores the need for greater acknowledgment and support for embalmers as vita contributors to death-care services. Keywords: embalming, lived experiences, death-care professionals, emotional labor, phenomenology
526			_aTH
650			_aHigher Education _vTheses and dissertations
650			_aEmbalming
700	1		_aSantillana, Sherylmae D.
700	1		_aAlentajan, Jessie Lyn M.
700	1		_aEsler, Owen N.
700	1		_aEspiritu, Liza Lea M.
700	1		_aGallego, Arabella A.
942			_2ddc _cTH
999			_c41714 _d41714