FARMERS' PERCEPTIONS, ATTITUDES, INFLUENCES AND MANAGEMENT OF INFORMATION IN THE DECISION-MAKING PROCESS FOR DISEASE CONTROL

摘要

Twenty English pig farmers were interviewed and asked to describe the decision-making process for two diseases they had experienced. In addition farmers' opinions on key information sources for disease control and on fhejesearch conducted on risk factors for post-weaning multi-systemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) were investigated. A qualitative analysis of the transcribed interview was done through the use of text templates.Drivers for disease control were 'mortality', 'feeling of entering in an economically critical situation', 'animal welfare' and 'feeling of despair'. In some non-sustainable situations, other producers seemed to influence considerably farmers' decision-making process. 'Lack of knowledge', 'farm structure and management barriers' and 'economic constrains' were identified as behavioural barriers. 'Lack of communication', 'not knowing where to look' and 'information bias' were themes associated with research from academia. Discussion of PMWS research findings identified positive and negative themes. Overall, insights gained are important for developing communication strategies for disease control.