WASH’ Nutrition

4.2. Barrier analysis
Barrier Analysis was developed in 1990 by Tom Davis based on the Health Belief
Model and the Theory of Reasoned Action. This is a rapid assessment tool used in
A behavioural determinant is a
reason why someone does or does
community health and other community development projects to ”identify behavioural
not do something. Therefore, they
determinants associated with a particular behaviour so that more effective behaviour
can be both positive - “promoters”
change communication messages, strategies and supporting activities (e.g., creating support
or “enablers” and negative -
groups, changing community norms, creating alternative activities) can be developed”. 108
“barriers”.
Barrier Analysis can be used at the start of a behaviour change programme to
determine key messages and activities for intervention. It can also be used in an ongoing programme focusing on behaviours
that have not changed very much despite repeated efforts, in order to understand what is keeping people from making a
particular change.
In Barrier Analysis, a survey is conducted using questions to identify potential determinants that can block (or enable) people
from taking action that could improve their own or their children’s lives (e.g. practicing exclusive breastfeeding or treating
water at home). Twelve potential determinants are studied including perceived self-efficacy/skills, perceived social norms,
access, and perceived positive consequences of adopting the behaviour. The responses of two groups are compared – those
that are currently adopting the behaviour under study – called the Doers – and those that are not currently adopting the
behaviour under study– called the Non-doers. Comparing the responses of these two groups helps to know which of the
possible determinants are most highly associated with the behaviour, and thus potentially more important to influence in order
to increase adoption and maintenance of the behaviour. The recommended sample size for a Barrier Analysis study is about
45 Doers and 45 Non-doers and generally takes 2-3 days.
The results obtained from Barrier Analysis can be used to make changes in programme design to reach certain groups with
specific messages, to decrease identified obstacles and to make it easier for people to adopt and do the behaviour.
NOTE
LEARN
MORE
Narrated Presentation on Barrier Analysis Process:
http://caregroupinfo.org/vids/bavid/player.html
A Practical Guide to Barrier Analysis:
http://www.fsnnetwork.org/practical-guide-conducting-barrier-analysis
Barrier Analysis questionnaires:
http://www.fsnnetwork.org/barrier-analysis-questionnaires-0
5. Coordination of stakeholders
PILLAR
4
Recognition of the relationship and interdependence between WASH conditions and nutritional status has been gaining
momentum in both sectors over the last few years. It became clear that achieving desired improvements in child’s health and
nutrition outcomes will require looking at the bigger picture and encouraging multiple sectors and stakeholders to work in
collaboration towards the common goals.
Depending on the context and specific in-country situation, different stakeholders could be identified as the potential partners
for planning and implementing integrated activities. These could be UN agencies, donors, academic institutions, international
NGOs, national/local organizations known to integrate projects or known to collaborate with other organizations in WASH
and nutrition programming, ministry representatives connected to WASH and nutrition programmes, beneficiaries, community
and religious leaders, media, etc. Selection of stakeholders/partners depends on the specific characteristics of the project/
activity and local context. Different stakeholders can be involved to different purposes and at different phases of the project.
It may not be feasible or appropriate to engage with all potential stakeholders, so stakeholder mapping and prioritization prior
to planning and implementation of integrated activities is advised.
108 - Food for the Hungry (2004) “Barrier Analysis Facilitator’s Guide”: http://barrieranalysis.fh.org/annex/Barrier_Analysis_Facilitator_Guide.pdf
WASH’Nutrition
A practical guidebook
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