From Growth to Greatness: Key Factors in Overcoming Stunting

Abstract

Introduction: Child malnutrition, including stunting, continues to affect millions, hindering physical and cognitive growth and posing risks to national development. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach integrating key factors to promote optimal child outcomes. This study analyzes the influence of key characteristics in overcoming child malnutrition to promote optimal child growth and development. Materials and methods: This study was conducted over six months (from March to November 2023) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, using field research techniques with a cross-sectional study approach. Data collection involved questionnaires, structured interviews, and observations. A total of 200 respondents, comprising parents and their toddlers, participated in the study. The researchers used Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to analyze the data. Results: The SEM conceptual test results for the model showed good fit indices (GFI = 0.865; AGFI = 0.829; RMSEA = 0.062, CFI = 0.904; TLI = 0.888; NFI = 0.806). The generated model is fit based on the goodness of fit statistics output from Amos version 26 software. Relationships between construct variables show that those with a significant direct effect on child growth are environmental health, family resilience, and holistic parenting. Meanwhile, social capital, the empowerment process, government support, and environmental health indicate significant indirect effects on child growth. Conclusion: This study identifies environmental health, family resilience, and holistic parenting as key direct factors influencing child growth, while social capital, empowerment, and government support have significant indirect effects. These findings highlight the need for integrated efforts to address child malnutrition through a multidimensional approach.