This is possibly one of the most under-recognized professions in the Western World, though it is centrally concerned with something that is important to, and touches on the lives of, every single person in the world. Thanatology is the study of death and dying, and many health care professionals have an intimate understanding of the processes associated with death, grief, preparing to die, etc from their day to day employment. Today we look at what a thanatologist does day to day, and the general career prospects.
What does a thantologist do?
Thantology is the academic study of the processes associated with death and dying. While this is not necessarily a 'practical' job (that is, there is no demand from the general public for your services), there is certainly a need for thanatologists throughout the world. Day to day, a thanatologist might:
- Conduct studies into attitudes surrounding death and dying
- Teach people about the processes, including counsellors and health care professionals
Thanatologists study and attempt to understand death in terms of anthropology and sociology.
Who employs thanatologists?
Thanatologists are often employed by research institutions and universities, as it is a largely academic career. It is also a career with education as an aim - thanatologists might help train palliative carers or grief counselors.
What DON'T thanatologists do?
People are often confused by the more academic nature of thanatology, and believe it is associated with other practical professions. Thanatologists usually do NOT:
- Provide grief counseling to the general public, though they may help train these front-line carers
- Provide palliative care, which is pain and symptom management, and other direct physical care of those close to death
Thanatologists do not speculate on what happens after death, though they may be interested in scientific evidence that points to what happens to the body and brain after death occurs. They are not religiously affiliated - in most cases their work is entirely secular.
Check out…
If you’re interested in becoming a thanatologist, check out one of the main texts on the subject: 'The Last Dance: Encountering Death and Dying'. This is often used for college level courses, and if you're interested in the content, it is a good guide to how you'll feel about becoming a thanatologist yourself.
