Abstract
In May of 1992, the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) of the Public Health Foundation of Los Angeles County, California undertook a project to explore the beliefs, perceptions and experiences relevant to the design and delivery of WIC services for several ethnic groups in Los Angeles. The Rapid Ethnographic Assessment procedure was used. This included standard anthropometrical methods, formal and informal interviews and participant observations. The objective of this project was to gather information about how WIC-enrolled or WIC-eligible women make decisions regarding pregnancy, infant feeding, child rearing, health care and family planning. Results included a “Private Knowledge vs Public Denial” model of the African-American pregnancy; a better understanding of the Armenian culture, especially the views on motherhood and family planning; the isolation and helplessness felt by many recent immigrants; and the differing views on educating and disciplining children among the ethnicities studied. Perceptions of health care services vary considerably between ethnic groups. In conclusion, because of this research, WIC education and counseling materials, staff in-service trainings and program policies will be evaluated and revised to be more ethnically appropriate for WIC participants.
Published Version
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