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Infant nutrition is a key contributor to healthy growth and development; hence,
proper dissemination and utilization of nutrition information is crucial. Studies
have shown that adequate nutrition information enhances appropriate practices,
reducing malnutrition and its consequences. However, previous studies have
largely focused on general nutrition information, particularly food labels, with
limited attention to how source credibility influences the use of such
information in Delta State. This study therefore investigated the influence of
source credibility on the utilization of infant nutrition information by mothers
in Delta State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey design was
employed. A questionnaire was administered to 391 respondents, while in- depth interviews were conducted in six rural communities selected through a
multistage sampling procedure. Mothers were chosen through systematic
sampling at primary health centres in each community. Guided by Source
Credibility Theory and the Elaboration Likelihood Model, the study utilized
both a questionnaire and an interview guide for data collection. Findings reveal
that credibility of information sources significantly influences utilization. Most
mothers reported relying on health practitioners, whom they considered more
knowledgeable, while many others trusted their mothers or mothers-in-law,
whom they viewed as experienced in motherhood. The study concludes that
although mothers access infant nutrition information from multiple sources,
they prefer credible sources. It recommends that health organizations and
healthcare workers collaborate with these trusted sources particularly
healthcare providers and mothers to improve dissemination and enhance
utilization of infant nutrition information.
