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Author
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Mutonhodza, Tafadzwa B.
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Title
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A Study on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards cremation as an environmental measure at Bindura University of Science Education
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Abstract
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According to Masona and Gwisai (2023), the disposal of a human body is a universal concern, with various methods practiced across different cultures. Common methods include ground burial, mummification, and cremation. However, rising death rates, especially from pandemics such as COVID-19, HIV/AIDS, and malaria, have heightened awareness of adopting cremation as a method of disposing of human remains. However, for this method to be accepted, the public must have adequate knowledge and hold favorable attitudes that support such practices. No previous research has been conducted in the study area to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices related to cremation. This study aims to address that gap. The study adopted a cross-sectional study design. A total of 50 questionnaires were administered among staff and students in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities. All the questions on the questionnaire were closed-ended. The questionnaire was divided into four sections namely, socio-demographic information, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). The data collected through questionnaires was analyzed using SPSS. the study included 50 respondents, with 56% female and 44% male participants. the 18-25 age group made up 86% of the sample, the 26-34 age group made up 6%, and the 35-40 consisted of 8% of the sample. Participants demonstrated a relatively fair knowledge score of 55% and a total attitudes score of 68%. However, the practice score was notably low at 31%, showing limited engagement in cremation. The findings indicate that while participants have good knowledge about cremation, their attitudes are generally negative and actual practice is very limited. These trends are strongly influenced by religious beliefs and cultural values. Therefore, even with sufficient knowledge, negative attitudes and cultural perceptions affect the acceptance of cremation. The study also showed a significant relationship between socio-demographic factors and KAP. Higher education levels correlated with greater understanding of cremation’s environmental .
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Date
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2025
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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Cremation
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Death rates
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Supervisor
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Mr. Nyamugure
