Abstract:
The main purpose of this research was to understand the lived experience of women hydro
massage therapist in the case of Addis Ababa, particularly in bole and yeka sub cities
administration through qualitative phenomenology study design. It was particularly mean to
explore the motives, challenges, opportunities of women participating in massage work and the
coping mechanism do women’s use while facing challenges as a hydro massage therapy.
Standing from this objective, the study attempted to answer the basic questions of, what is the
overall lived experience of female hydro massage therapist. Specifically what are the driving
factors that force females to engage in a hydro massage therapy? What are the major challenges
that affect female massage workers? What are the potential opportunities those females enjoys
as a hydro massage worker? And what are the coping mechanisms do women use while facing
challenges as a hydro massage therapist? Purposive and quota sampling was used for selection
of both the interview participant and the relaxation massage houses. Twelve massage houses
were selected with quota from two sub cities study area purposively. Likewise through their
female massage workers were selected for in-depth interview for the research purposively. One
participant quota was given from each massage house. The data collection was done through
individual in-depth interview. Interviewee were twelve female aged 20-31 years, who were
participating in the hydro massage work more than two years, ranging from 2-5 years. Major
themes were identified and analyzed thematically in line with the research questions. The finding
from this study revealed that the major motives that drive women’s to engage in the hydro
massage industry are; social, economical, psychological and global motives like peer pressure,
poverty, professionalism and communication technology respectively. On the other hand the
study revealed that women hydro massage workers have the following challenges, social
challenges(education, health, family, media),Sexual challenge (self sexual feeling, un ethical
massage dressing instruction, rape, harassment, unwanted touch),Psychological challenge like,
isolation, depression and self blame. The major opportunities are economic benefit, marriage
engagement benefit, avoiding personal shyness, etc. Based on the finding of the present study
multi sectotal response is needed. Recommendations are to be implemented by the government,
Nongovernmental organizations, private hydro massage business house owners, parents and
communities.