Family function and its association with stunting: A-cross sectional study among under-five children in rural areas of Indonesia

Abstract

Background: Family function is the role or task carried out by the family to fulfill the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of its members, as well as to maintain the continuity and health of the family. Health problems including stunting in children in the family indicate that there are components of family function that are not optimal. Family function is crucial because toddlers are highly dependent on how the family provides care, nutrition, and parenting, all of which are integrated into family function. The purpose of this study was to analyze the factors that related of family function and stunting among under-five children in rural areas of Indonesia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 236 of rural families with stunted children using stratified random sampling in Jember, East Java of Indonesia. Measurement of family function using the Family Assessment Device (FAD) Questionnaire and stunting was measured using WHO Anthroplus. Data were analyzed using descriptive, comparative and logistic regression statistics knowing how big the risk influence is on the incidence of stunting.

Results: The prevalence of dysfunctional family function of rural families were 55.5% and stunted children for very short category were 64%.  Logistic regression test shows family functions that influence the risk of stunting in rural families are problem solving (AOR 2.45; 95% CI= 1.36-4.41), communication (AOR 2.07; 95% CI= 1.15-3.71), role (AOR 2.70; 95% CI=1.55-4.70), affective response (AOR 2.08; 95% CI= 1.26 -3.43), and affective involvement (AOR 2.11; 95% CI=1.16-3.82).. The dimensions of family function were found to collectively predict 63% of the risk of stunting among under-five children

Conclusion: Family function influences the risk of stunting among under-five children in rural areas. Therefore, families will be able to improve family function for the welfare of all family members.