Presenter
Ytossie Graves
Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
This project addressed knowledge gaps and misconceptions related to infant feeding practices among participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in Rhode Island. Infants in this population face increased health risks influenced by socioeconomic disparities, cultural beliefs, and limited access to consistent breastfeeding education. The project aimed to improve maternal understanding of breastfeeding and formula feeding while supporting informed, culturally responsive decision-making. Guided by the Health Belief Model, a bilingual (English and Spanish) educational intervention was developed, consisting of an evidence-based infographic and a structured nutrition education class for expecting and new mothers. A pre-test survey assessed participants’ knowledge, beliefs, perceived barriers, and breastfeeding self-efficacy. Educational messaging emphasized the health benefits of breastfeeding while acknowledging that formula feeding may be appropriate in certain circumstances, with an intentional focus on reducing stigma and increasing confidence. Proposed evaluation strategies included pre- and post-intervention surveys and follow-up assessment of exclusive breastfeeding rates at six months and one year. This project demonstrated how theory-driven, culturally tailored nutrition education within WIC settings may improve maternal knowledge and support healthier infant feeding practices in underserved populations.
Faculty Mentor
Nader Hamdi Ph.D., RDN, LDN
Academic Discipline
College of Health & Wellness
Repository Citation
Graves, Ytossie, "Improving Infant Feeding Practices" (2026). Student Research Design & Innovation Symposium. 327.
https://scholarsarchive.jwu.edu/innov_symposium/327
