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Measuring Public Occupational Stigma Toward Morticians: Scale Development, Validation, and Implications

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The present study employed stigma theory to devise a scale measuring public occupational stigma towards morticians and subsequently analyzed its impact. In Phase 1 (n = 575), the researchers developed the Public Occupational Stigma toward Morticians Scale (POSMS) and conducted item analysis and exploratory factor analysis. Phase 2 (n = 536, n = 466) conducted confirmatory factor analysis and retest reliability testing for the scale. Phase 3 (n = 1111) validated construct validity, measurement invariance across genders, and criterion-related validity. In summary, these results supported the reliability and validity of the POSMS and confirmed that public occupational stigma toward morticians had negative consequences. This study fills a gap in research on occupational stigma within the funeral industry and offers practical insights for addressing stigma-related issues in other professions.

Source: Behavioral Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/bs15121729

Authors: Jiejing Yu, Dongmei Huang

Institution: Jilin University

Language: English

Topic: Death, Funerary Practices, and Mourning

Subfield: Anthropology

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,654