Influence of Mother s Characteristics and Self-Determination on Stunting Toddler Care Behavior Using Partial Least Square Model

Aims: The objective of this research was to examine whether there exists a correlation between certain attributes of a mother and her determination to make decisions independently and how these factors impact her actions toward stunted toddlers. Instrument Methods: A quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design was utilized in the work area of the Manuju Health Center from January to March 2023. By census method, the sample size was determined to be 102. Data was collected using a combination of interviews, observations, and questionnaires. Findings: Knowledge, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and amotivation had significant effects on the stunting toddler care behavior (χ2=83.95; df=8; p 0.001). The coefficient of determination indicated that 75.8% of the stunting toddler care behavior was influenced by knowledge, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and amotivation. The characteristics had no significant effect on behavior (p=0.576), but the motivation had a direct significant effect on behavior (p 0.001). Conclusion: Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation are the most influential parameters in stunting toddler care behavior.