Perception of bureaucracy and why it matters: exploring the relationship between WIC clients' breastfeeding status and their perceptions of WIC bureaucracy

Despite research indicating that breast milk is the best source of infant nutrition, women receiving Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) benefits breastfeed at low rates. This study examines the relationship between WIC clients’ perceptions of bureaucratic practices and stance on breastfeeding and the clients’ breastfeeding status. Using survey data, correlation and regression are employed for multiple indicators of the independent variable and breastfeeding status. Grounding the analysis in public administration theories, this research concludes that significant associations exist between clients’ breastfeeding and their perceptions of bureaucracy, and that policy and programmatic changes directed at modifying the messaging by WIC staff to clients can improve breastfeeding rates among WIC mothers.