Perception of Psychology Students on Cremation

Abstract

This study explored the perception of Cremation from psychology students who have finished taking clinical psychology. It explores their views of Cremation and the factors behind those views. At the same time, provide an intervention plan. The study was primarily anchored by the Constructivist Theory of Perception by Richard Gregory (1970) and supported by the Mere Exposure Effect by Robert Zajonc (1968) and the Gateway Belief Model by Van der Linden (2019). In this qualitative study, a phenomenological research design was applied. The sixteen (16) participants were selected using the purposive sampling technique. The researcher used a semi-structured questionnaire with an open-ended interview to gather data. The qualitative data were analyzed thematically through transcription of interviews, coding, significant statements, formed meanings, clustering themes, and emerging themes. Based on the analyzed data, it resulted in nineteen (9) emergent themes, which were divided into two (2) that offered results from the sub-problems. For the participants' views on Cremation, the emerging themes are Facial and Body Deformation, Expensive Process Fees, Clean Process, and Double Killing. For the factors that affect the participants; views on Cremation, the emerging themes are Lack of Knowledge on Cremation, Influence of Status Symbols, Influence of Religion and Tradition, Family and Financial Conflict, and Before Funeral Promise. This study's conclusions and recommendations were used to help the crematorium homes and the potential client. Thus, to further explore the cremation practice in the Philippines and how it affects an enormous scope and to make a more strategic action plan.