Evaluating a Latrine Use Intervention in Odisha, India

The objective of this research is to evaluate an intervention focused on increasing latrine use in rural Odisha India. The present study builds off of previous research, which resulted in the design of an intervention to increase latrine use. This research evaluates the intervention designed to determine if significant increases in latrine use are observed among those who received the intervention compared to those that did not. Qualitative research will supplement trial data collection to help explain findings and understand perceptions of the intervention.

For trial data collection, household members will be engaged in a survey that asks questions about the household, the latrine use practices of their family members, and may include additional questions about social norms attitudes, and other factors influencing latrine use.

Investigators will carry out two discrete qualitative research activities both digitally recorded: in depth interviews (IDIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs). Topics to be covered during the qualitative research include: perceptions of the intervention, reasons for using/not using latrines, motivations for sanitation behaviors.

The primary objective of the study is to evaluate a multi-level, theoretically informed intervention designed to increase latrine use for defecation among all members of households that currently own a latrine.

Villages located in rural Puri district, Odisha India

Inclusion criteria

• Estimated 60% latrine coverage or higher
• At least 75 households
• Have a village leader willing to participate

Exclusion criteria

• Considered open-defecation free (ODF)
• Participants under the age of 18 will not be targeted for research-related activities, like interviews and discussions, though we will ask caregivers or other household members to provide in information about the sanitation-related behaviors of children under age 18.