Exploring the strategies and components of interventions to build adolescent awareness about stunting prevention in West Java: A qualitative study

Abstract

Aim This study aimed to explore the strategies and important components that can be implemented to build adolescent awareness about stunting prevention. Methods This study used descriptive qualitative design. The data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) and semi-structured interviews. Purposive sampling method was employed to select the participants. The FGDs involved adolescents (n = 6) and high school counselling teachers (n = 5), while the semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts frequently involved in overcoming stunting problems in Indonesia (n = 7). The interview results were transcribed in verbatim transcription and analysed by using thematic analysis. Results Five themes were identified from the results: 1) Adolescent identity development with three sub-themes: online identity exploration, rebellious stage, and peer influence; 2) Creative and visually appealing website with six sub-themes: interesting appearance, short time span, serial content, story pattern, scenario using adolescent idol's name, and attractive website menu; 3) Nutritional needs for adolescents with three sub-themes: iron and calcium intake, less sugar consumption, and nutritional status; 4) Engaging content for adolescents with seven sub-themes: stunting, reproductive health, anaemia, diet, wellness, early marriage, and physical activity; and 5) Effective communication strategy with two sub-themes: consistency of activities and communicative. Implications In designing adolescent stunting prevention interventions, multidisciplinary programs utilizing engaging digital health modules and grassroots partnerships should be developed and tested. These programs aim to enhance knowledge retention among youth through appealing online content and interactive community activities. Rigorous evaluation of biopsychosocial approaches can establish integrated best practices across individual, social and policy dimensions for reducing stunting.