Abstract

This research sought to figure out the knowledge and parenting patterns of mothers who have stunted toddler among isolated community of the Dayak Meratus Tribe. The reseach was a qualitative study. Data collection was carried out by in-depth interviews, observation, and an FGD in Batuah Village, Kotabaru, Indonesia. The participants were the district head, the public health center head, the village head, the adat leader, and several mothers who have stunting toddlers (18 persons). The content analysis method was employed for data analysis. Data validation was performed by triangulation, where the methods and data sources used were compared against one another, as well as peer discussion to collect feedback, checking the findings for refinement, and improvement of the findings. The Dayak Meratus mothers lacked sufficient knowledge of stunting. This is related to isolated residential areas, inadequate transportation and communication facilities, lack of access to health services and education. However, traditional leaders have better knowledge about stunting. They can explain the meaning of stunting and its causes. Generally, mothers do not give exclusive breastfeeding, giving complementary foods too early. Toddlers and pregnant women abstain from various foods that can encourage stunting. The cleanliness of the child's body is less concerned because it is rarely bathed. This is due to the lack of availability of clean water and sanitation facilities. If they are sick, the traditional healer treats them by giving them a decoction of leaves and roots that has been passed down from generation to generation. It is suggested that the local government should provide nutrition and health education for society on a regular basis with the involvement of adat figures.