Implications of the Interface of Home Economics and Women in Development

Abstract

The relationship of preferences for programs and policies addressing women in developing countries to professional training, professional association member ship, international experience, and related demographic variables was studied. The sample consisted of 299 respondents from the combined total membership of the International Section of the American Home Economics Association (AHEA) and the Association for Women in Development (AWID). The interface of pref erences was explored by first grouping respondents according to discipline or to professional association membership and then comparing subscale and factor analysis scores. Findings indicate that AWID home economists' preferences over lap with those of other members of AWID and the remaining home economists. Home economists strongly preferred household approaches, and women‐ in‐development professionals preferred empowerment approaches. Home econ omists need to examine critically how their preferences might either limit or facilitate their collaboration with those outside the profession.