THE EFFECT OF THE SI-ABI APPLICATION (SAHABAT ANAK STUNTING) ON MOTHERS’ BEHAVIOR IN MEETING THE NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF STUNTED TODDLERS

Abstract

Stunting is a nutritional problem associated with inadequate nutritional intake and family caregiving practices. The use of digital technology through educational applications has the potential to improve mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding nutritional fulfillment among stunted toddlers. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the effect of Si-ABi (Sahabat Anak Stunting Application) on mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding nutritional fulfillment among stunted toddlers. Methods: This study employed a quasi-experimental pre-test–post-test control group design. The sample consisted of 68 mothers of stunted toddlers, comprising 34 respondents in the intervention group and 34 in the control group. The intervention group received education through the Si-ABi application, while the control group received routine health education. Knowledge, attitudes, and stunting prevention behaviors were assessed before and after the intervention. Results: Following the intervention, the proportion of mothers with good knowledge in the intervention group increased from 32.4% to 82.4%, positive attitudes increased from 23.5% to 73.5%, and good stunting prevention behaviors increased from 22.1% to 88.2%. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between the intervention and control groups in knowledge (p=0.001), attitudes (p=0.003), and stunting prevention behaviors (p=0.001). Conclusion: Si-ABi significantly improved mothers’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding nutritional fulfillment among stunted toddlers. Recommendation: Further research should involve a larger sample size, a longer follow-up period, and objective measurements of maternal behavior and child growth status to evaluate the long-term effectiveness of Si-ABi.