Improving Diets Requires a Shift in Attitudes Related to Gender Roles and Relations: Formative Research to Inform Social Behaviour Change Initiatives in Sri Lanka. (7th June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sinclair, Kate; Elinder, Frans; Ranasinghe, Heshani; Aboobacker, Noor
• Is Part Of: Current developments in nutrition. Volume 5(2021)Supplement 2
• Page Start: 992
• Page End: 992
• Publication Date: 2021-06-07
• Subjects: Nutrition -- Periodicals; Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Nutrition; Periodicals; Periodicals; Fulltext; Internet Resources; Periodicals; 612.3
• DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzab051_036
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2475-2991

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: With all forms of malnutrition remaining problematic in Sri Lanka, evidenced-based social behaviour change (SBC) interventions have been identified as an underutilized entry point to help improve food security and nutrition outcomes. In this study, we describe formative research findings derived from a qualitative ethnographic approach to inform gender-responsive nutrition SBC interventions. Methods: This study was conducted in six regions of Sri Lanka, capturing diverse population segments. Data collection used focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and kitchen audits to understand food environments and consumption habits as well as attitudes toward, and perceptions of, food and nutrition. Participants included women of reproductive age, adolescent girls and boys, male and female influencers, and health care workers. Results: Deep-rooted patriarchal structures continue to prevail in Sri Lanka and gender differences in, and influence on, nutrition-related behaviours were evident throughout this study. These traditional roles and expectations are reinforced by the media. Men were typically responsible for providing economic resources to procure food, while women continue to bear the responsibility of acquiring and preparing it. Although women, who overall had relatively good knowledge about healthy eating, made most decisions related to food, the influence of men and children's preferences, which tended to be based on taste rather than nutritional value, took precedence. Gender inequalities related to the intra-household distribution of food favouring men and boys, both in terms of quality and quantity were highlighted. Important geographical differences in the barriers and facilitators to nutrition-related behaviour were also identified (e.g., media habits, social perceptions, lifestyle changes, and access to information and food). Education and communication initiatives tailored to challenging local gender stereotypes and notions of masculinity, especially as they related to food and nutrition, will be critical in efforts to build a movement to promote healthier diets. Conclusions: The findings from this study should be integrated into the design and dissemination of tailored SBC messages in Sri Lanka. Failing to do so has the potential to further exacerbate nutrition and gender inequalities. Funding Sources: WFP