Behavioral Barriers to Feeding Young Children During and After Illness

The report presents findings from qualitative research conducted in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, which identified five key behavioral barriers that prevent caregivers from feeding their children according to global guidelines. These barriers include poverty and scarcity, divided attention during sick visits, a focus on quality over quantity of food, perceptions of inappropriate foods, and deference to a child's limited appetite. The report provides insights into these barriers and offers implications for programming to support caregivers and health workers in addressing these challenges.