The Connection Between an Unequitable Distribution of Care Responsibilities and a Widening Gender Nutrition Gap in Latin America

Authors

Alexis Nicole Bodlak, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Heather Akin, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Laura Young, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Cheyenne Gerlach

Committee Members

Heather Akin, Laura Young, Cheyenne Gerlach

Date of this Version

Spring 5-16-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

Bodlak, A. 2025. The Connection Between an Unequitable Distribution of Care Responsibilities and a Widening Gender Nutrition Gap in Latin America. Undergraduate Honors Thesis. University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

Copyright Alexis Bodlak 2025.

Abstract

The notion of care refers to activities that satisfy the basic needs of existence and reproduction. Within rural communities, care work such as the production and preparation of food contributes to food security at the household level. Care work supports the paid workforce, allowing workers to focus on commercial productive activities that generate economic income in rural communities. Women perform 6.3 to 29.5 more hours per week than men in unpaid care work, reducing their time for income-generating activities and personal nutrition management. Affecting their economic independence and ability to access and consume nutritious food. Studies show that in food-insecure households, women often prioritize feeding other family members over themselves (FAO, 2023).

This thesis argues that the unequitable distribution of unpaid care responsibilities significantly contributes to the widening gender nutrition gap in Latin America. By limiting women’s access to economic opportunities, decision-making power and time for self-care, excessive care burdens perpetuate food insecurity among women and girls. Addressing this issue requires integrating gender-transformative policies and programs.