Behavioral research

Cultural beliefs and human behavior are major factors influencing nutritional status. Nutrition-related behaviors are based upon the local availability of foods and related products, as well as deeply ingrained traditions, household dynamics, and social norms. Strategies to affect practices-in addition to knowledge and attitudes-must address these underlying factors and offer feasible, acceptable alternatives in order to achieve long-term, sustainable changes in diet and nutrition. AED uses state-of-the-art research methods based on proven theories and models of behavior change to understand to factors influencing nutritional practices and to develop communications strategies, moving populations toward healthier daily nutrition practices. AED staff have authored numerous sentinel papers and written field-friendly manuals on how to apply behavioral research methods, including focus groups discussions, rapid participatory appraisals, and trials of improved practices for BCC programs on breastfeeding, complementary feeding, maternal nutrition, obesity, nutrition and HIV/AIDS, and mitigating the nutritional consequences of the avian influenza epidemic.