Abstract

Exploring the profound emotional dimensions within the world of sex work, this phenomenological study delves into the intricate experiences of shame and regrets among mama- sans operating in the vibrant yet complex setting of "Walking Street" in Angeles City, Pampanga. The research design is grounded in a desire to gain deeper insights into the complex emotions surrounding this group's involvement in the sex trade industry. Through a purposive sampling technique, individuals whose ages range from thirty (30) to sixty (60) years old, actively engaged as procurers will be recruited for face-to-face interviews. These interviews will explore into their personal narratives and experiences, aiming to understand how shame and regrets manifest within their daily lives. The interpretive phenomenological approach offers a valuable framework for capturing nuanced aspects of subjective experiences by emphasizing participants' lived realities. By adopting this approach, researchers seek a comprehensive understanding of the emotional landscape that shapes procurers' perceptions, motivations, coping mechanisms, and potential avenues for intervention or support. Data analysis will involve thematic analysis techniques that allow for identification and interpretation of recurring patterns within participants' accounts. This process will help uncover key themes related to shame and regrets while recognizing individual variation amongst procurers. Findings from this study are expected to contribute significantly to existing literature on shame theory as well as broader discussions surrounding sex workrelated research. It is hoped that these findings may inform policies aimed at addressing the emotional well-being of individuals involved in similar contexts while offering insights into potential interventions targeting shame reduction strategies or support services tailored explicitly for this population.