In previous research, we identified stigma as a significant barrier to the willingness to accept food assistance, both from public health and community-based resources. As part of the Aetna Foundation's Healthiest Cities and Counties Challenge, qualitative interviews were conducted with food security advocates, low- and middle-income community members, unemployed individuals, and college students to determine root causes of food insecurity. The stigma associated with food assistance was a prevalent theme. Based on these interviews, the FRAQ was developed using social science scale development recommendations. This webinar describes how stigma impacts acceptance of food assistance, the development and psychometric testing of the FRAQ, potential strategies aimed at decreasing food assistance stigma, and socioecological contributors to food insecurity among older adults living in rural areas. 

Frances Hardin-Fanning, PhD, RN

Nursing Research, University of Louisville School of Nursing|Professor and Endowed Chair