How pervasive are sex differentials in childhood nutritional levels in South Asia?

Abstract

This paper considers the assumption that there are widespread sex differentials in the household allocation of food in South Asia. From primary field data and a critical review of the existing literature, it concludes that we have no reason to believe that girls in this region invariably get an unfair deal in the matter of nutrition, even in those areas where sex differentials in child mortality are the most acute. Too much of the research to support such a contention starts with the biased view that gender differences in nutritional status must exist. It is pointed out in this paper that a new look at this issue is essential if we are to use scarce resources most effectively to fight gender inequalities. By identifying more precisely the areas in which women are worst discriminated against, action to affect these areas can be focused much better than by spreading efforts into programs where the need is at best marginal.

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