Methodology for studying human attitudes and behaviour to cow-calf contact systems

J Dairy Res. 2020 Aug;87(S1):122-127. doi: 10.1017/S0022029920000448. Epub 2020 Jul 30.

Abstract

This position paper describes a common stand on methodology of human attitudes and behaviour that is suitable to use in studies regarding cow-calf contact (CCC) in dairy production, in order to create a common knowledge base and foundation for future recommendations of CCC systems. We describe how different quantitative and qualitative methods can be used to study human attitudes to CCC as well as farmer or consumer behaviour. We aim to contribute to a better understanding of the available methods, and hope that this paper can be used as a guideline for future studies in this area.

Keywords: Attitudes; consumers; cow−calf contact systems; human−animal relationship; interviews.

MeSH terms

  • Animal Husbandry / methods
  • Animal Welfare
  • Animals
  • Animals, Newborn / physiology*
  • Attitude*
  • Behavior*
  • Cattle / physiology*
  • Dairying / methods*
  • Farmers / psychology*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Weaning