Parenting Styles and Sociodemographic Factors Associated with the Risk of Stunting among Under-Five Children

Abstract

Introduction: Stunting persists as a significant public health concern in Indonesia, contributing to long-term cognitive and health complications. Parenting practices and sociodemographic conditions are considered key determinants of stunting risk. The objective of this study was to examine the association between sociodemographic factors, parenting styles, and the risk of stunting among children aged 25–59 months.

Method: A case-control study was conducted at Koya Community Health Center, Minahasa, Indonesia, in March 2024. A total of 102 mothers were recruited using purposive sampling, consisting of 51 cases (stunting risk) and 51 controls (non-stunting). Sociodemographic variables and parenting styles were assessed using structured questionnaires. Anthropometric data were obtained from health records. Data were analyzed using Chi-square tests and Odds Ratios (OR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CI).

Result: Negative parenting styles (permissive and neglectful) were more prevalent in the stunting group (64.7%) compared to controls (29.4%). A significant association was found between parenting style and the risk of stunting (p < 0.001). Children exposed to positive parenting were less likely to experience stunting (OR = 0.227; 95% CI: 0.099–0.522). Low maternal education and low household income were more common among stunting cases.

Conclusion: Parenting style is significantly associated with the risk of stunting. Strengthening positive parenting interventions may contribute to reducing stunting prevalence.