Water Source Preferences and Water Quality Perceptions Among Women in the Eastern Region, Ghana
Chew, Jhanel.
2017
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Abstract: Previous
research in the Eastern Region of Ghana has shown that residents who have access to
improved water sources, such as boreholes and covered wells, will still choose to
collect water from unimproved sources, such as rivers and uncovered wells. To assess why
this occurs, two field study visits were conducted to coincide with Ghana's rainy and
dry seasons. In the first study, ... read moresemi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted
among a convenience sample of 26 adult female subjects in four rural communities. Each
subject was asked about their attitudes and perceptions of water sources in their
community. The second field study involved field observations of four women for up to
four days in length to provide context for water collection and use of water from
different sources in homes. A grounded theory approach was used to identify three themes
that informed water source choices. The themes were water quality perception, collection
of and access to water, and the dynamic interaction of these. Based on the field
observations, a larger role for women in water management and supply decision-making
would better advance the population health of their
communities.
Thesis (M.S.)--Tufts University, 2017.
Submitted to the Dept. of Civil Engineering.
Advisor: David Gute.
Committee: Fernando Ona, Sarah Pinto, Alexandra Kulinkina, and Laura Corlin.
Keywords: Behavioral sciences, Social research, and Public health.read less - ID:
- 9306t936q
- Component ID:
- tufts:22384
- To Cite:
- TARC Citation Guide EndNote