ABSTRACT
This chapter identifies a limited number of household variables and interactions for possible examination in farming systems research, suggests disciplinary approaches and specific techniques that farming systems researchers might employ in studying these variables. It presents several types of research that might be carried out to improve our understanding of how household processes relate to technology needs and adoption. There are two key conceptual and methodological challenges in the use of intra-household analysis to strengthen the farming systems research (FSR) process. First, the FSR team must determine the appropriate unit of analysis for investigation. Second, it must develop a strategy for identifying the unit's primary objectives with respect to agriculture and improved technologies. A consensus is also emerging on the need to distinguish among different types of research, which should be viewed as complementary and benefiting from feedback and iteration with each other.
