Stunting in the Digital Age: Health Literacy Challenges Among Parents in Palopo City

Abstract

The rapid use of digital information about health is used by parents to find out about stunting conditions in their children. This study aims to analyze the behavior of parents seeking information about stunting on the internet and also identify the factors that influence parents to search for information online  about stunting. The method used in this study is a qualitative approach with in-depth interviews with five informants who have stunted children. The results of the study show that parents actively use digital platforms, such as YouTube and Google, to seek information related to parenting, nutrition, and child health, especially after knowing that their child is stunted. Parents feel that video content on the internet helps them better understand parenting practices and appropriate nutrition recommendations. Videos allow them to see first-hand recommended techniques or tips, which they find more effective than verbal instructions they get from healthcare professionals. In addition to the ease of access and availability of various resources, parents also feel that online search allows them to select and sort information according to their child's specific needs, such as the type of nutrition, meal schedule, or sleep patterns that support the child's growth. Unsatisfactory interactions with health workers, such as limited consultation time and incomplete information, also encourage parents to seek additional information online as a complement and further guidance. This study emphasizes the importance of improving digital literacy and health among parents so that they are better able to access accurate and relevant information in order to support child development.