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

The present study employed stigma theory to devise a scale measuring public occupational stigma towards morticians and subsequently analyzed its impact. In Phase 1 (<i>n</i> = 575), the researchers developed the Public Occupational Stigma toward Morticians Scale (POSMS) and conducted item analysis and exploratory factor analysis. Phase 2 (<i>n</i> = 536, <i>n</i> = 466) conducted confirmatory factor analysis and retest reliability testing for the scale. Phase 3 (<i>n</i> = 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.