Recent developments in hygiene behaviour research : an emphasis on methods and meaning

This paper discusses some of the recent developments in hygiene behaviour research, focusing on operational research. A series of 'rapid' assessments of hygiene behaviour were undertaken in Kenya, Tanzania and Ethiopia with a view to preparing a field handbook entitled Hygiene Evaluation procedures (HEP). In this paper, it is suggested that in the domestic sphere, hygiene behaviour with respect to the disposal of children's faeces and domestic water use are two of the key areas that remain of universal relevance to water and sanitation related interventions. These can be assessed rapidly and effectively by using two indicators: means of disposal of children's faeces and handwashing at 'critical' times - after defaecation, after handling and/or disposing of children's faeces, before handling food and before feeding young children and eating. Appropriate combinations of anthropological methods and participatory tools for measuring these indicators are described. The practical relevance of the resulting data for project design and implementation is highlighted.