Negotiating Cultural Beliefs and Health Practices: A Qualitative Study of Maternal Knowledge and Stunting Prevention in Rural Madura, Indonesia

This study investigates how maternal knowledge, cultural beliefs, and parenting behavior intersect in the context of stunting prevention among mothers with toddlers in rural Madura, Indonesia. Despite numerous national initiatives, stunting remains a critical public health concern, especially in culturally rooted communities. This study aims to explore how mothers understand and implement childcare practices, such as complementary feeding and iron supplementation (TTD), and how sociocultural factors influence their decisions. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with mothers and healthcare workers. Thematic analysis revealed that while many mothers possessed basic awareness of balanced nutrition and timely complementary feeding, their practices were constrained by food taboos, traditional beliefs, and limited access to accurate information. Common misconceptions such as the belief that iron supplements cause oversized babies led to irregular tablet consumption. Furthermore, family members played a dual role, either supporting healthy behaviors or reinforcing outdated norms. Healthcare professionals, particularly midwives, were found to be key influencers in shaping maternal practices through counseling and community engagement. However, their efforts were often challenged by resource limitations and deep-seated cultural resistance. Despite these barriers, mothers responded positively when approached with empathy and practical examples. This study emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive, family-centered health education that bridges biomedical recommendations with local beliefs. Strengthening community-based health communication and involving key social actors are essential strategies to reduce stunting and improve child health outcomes in underserved rural areas.