Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) studies

KAP studies are used to establish existing knowledge, attitudes and practice vis a vis basic health and hygiene, including those which relate to water and sanitation. These studies may be critical to reaching an understanding of whether underprivileged communities appreciate the connection between water, excreta, germs and disease, and what existing beliefs and behaviours need to be changed in order for provision of services to lead to health impacts. If the principal values attached to water are spiritual, or have to do with temperature or taste, a new and safe source may not necessarily be valued. KAP studies have often shown that convenience, and savings of women's time and energy, are rated much more highly than health benefits. KAP also has an influence on quantity of water used in the household, types of use, and other health-related water behaviours. Methodology for KAP studies is available in the social survey literature. (See also Social data collection.)