The Behavioral Ecological Model: A Framework for Early WIC Participation‪.‬

Abstract: Based upon the Behavioral Ecological theoretical framework, the purpose of this study was to assess determinates of early WIC participation in a North Carolina textile-manufacturing county. A Likert-type questionnaire was utilized to assess intrapersonal, interpersonal, organizational/ systemic, and community/cultural contingencies. Findings indicate cultural intrapersonal and interpersonal contingencies, and systemic barriers influence WIC participation. Recommendations for increasing early WI C participation are presented within the Behavioral Ecological Model. It is imperative that health programmers and policy initiatives take into account the personal, cultural, and environmental influences that promote the adoption of positive health behaviors among different ethnic groups. **********