The motivations of female relaxation massage therapists to engage in massage work: Phenomenological study from Addis Ababa

Surafel Melsew

Volume : VIII, Issue : IX, September - 2019

The motivations of female relaxation massage therapists to engage in massage work: Phenomenological study from Addis Ababa

Surafel Melsew

Abstract :

It is a mere fact that massage work is one of the growing business activities in Ethiopia and young women are the main actors of this business. However, we have yet known little about those women who involved in this business as massage therapists. Hence, the main purpose of this research is to understand the motivations of female�s relaxation massage therapist to engage in massage work at Addis Ababa, particularly in Bole and Yeka sub cities administration. To meet the objectives of the study, qualitative approach with phenomenology design was employed. To select the study site and participants, both purposive and quota sampling techniques were used. The data was extracted thorough in–depth interview data collection instrument and it was analyzed by using thematic qualitative data analysis technique. The study found out that the major motives that drive women to engage in the massage industry are peer pressure, poverty, professionalism and media. Finally, conclusion and future directions for intervention are highlighted in accordance with the major findings of the study.