Thesis Proposal: Investigating the Impact of Maternal Knowledge and Perception on the

Nutritional Status of Children Under 5 Years Old in Central Kapangan

1. Introduction
1.1 Background and Rationale:
The nutritional status of children under 5 years old is a critical indicator of their overall health
and well-being. Malnutrition during this critical period can lead to lifelong consequences,
affecting physical growth, cognitive development, and susceptibility to diseases. Despite efforts
to address malnutrition, certain areas such as Central Kapangan in Benguet province,
Philippines, continue to face significant challenges.
Based on the 2022 Operation Timbang (OPT) results, Kapangan exhibits a high prevalence of
stunting among children under 5 years old, indicating a pressing need to understand the factors
contributing to this issue. Maternal knowledge and perception play crucial roles in shaping child
nutrition outcomes. Thus, this study aims to explore how maternal factors influence the
nutritional status of children in Central Kapangan.
1.2 Research Objectives:
The primary objective of this study is to examine the nutritional status of children under 5 years
old in Central Kapangan and investigate the impact of maternal knowledge and perception on
their nutritional status. Specifically, the study aims to:

 Assess the prevalence of stunting, wasting, underweight, overweight, and obesity among
children under 5 years old.
 Investigate the relationship between maternal knowledge and perception regarding
nutrition, particularly exclusive breastfeeding, and the nutritional status of their children.
 Evaluate the effectiveness of government programs aimed at supporting child nutrition in
Central Kapangan.
2. Literature Review
2.1 Nutritional Status of Children Under 5 Years Old
2.2 Factors Influencing Child Nutrition:
Examination of maternal factors (e.g., breastfeeding practices, maternal education), household
characteristics, access to healthcare, and socio-economic factors affecting child nutrition.
2.3 Maternal Knowledge and Practices Regarding Exclusive Breastfeeding:
Analysis of the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for child nutrition and the role of maternal
knowledge, attitudes, and practices in promoting optimal infant feeding practices.
2.4 Government Programs Supporting Child Nutrition:
Overview of existing government programs and policies addressing child malnutrition, including
supplementation, vaccination, and maternal and child health services.
3. Theoretical Framework
This study will be guided by Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, Bronfenbrenner's Ecological
Systems Theory, and Erikson's Psychosocial Developmental Theory to understand the complex
interplay of factors influencing child nutrition within the context of Central Kapangan.
4. Methodology
4.1 Study Design:
A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining quantitative analysis of
anthropometric measurements and regression analysis with qualitative data collection through
maternal interviews/questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions.
4.2 Population and Sampling:
A census of children under 5 years old in Central Kapangan will be conducted to ensure
representation of the target population. Maternal interviews/questionnaires will be conducted
with the mothers of these children to gather data on maternal knowledge and perception related
to child nutrition. Purposive sampling will be used to select key informants, such as healthcare
professionals, community leaders, and government officials, as well as participants for focus
group discussions. Key informants will provide insights into the effectiveness of government
programs supporting child nutrition in the area.
4.3 Data Collection:
Anthropometric measurements will be taken to assess the nutritional status of children under 5
years old. Maternal interviews/questionnaires will explore maternal knowledge, perceptions, and
practices regarding child nutrition. Key informant interviews will provide additional perspectives
on government programs supporting child nutrition. Focus group discussions will allow for a
deeper exploration of community views and experiences related to child nutrition and
government interventions.
4.4 Data Analysis:
Descriptive statistics will summarize anthropometric measurements, and regression analysis
will determine the relationship between maternal knowledge/perception and child nutritional
status. Qualitative data from maternal interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group
discussions will be analyzed thematically to identify patterns and themes, providing a
comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing child nutrition in Central Kapangan.
5. Ethical Considerations
 Ethical approval will be obtained from the relevant institutional review board. Informed
consent will be obtained from all participants, and confidentiality and anonymity will be ensured
throughout the study.
6. Significance of the Study
This study will provide valuable insights into the nutritional status of children under 5 years
old in Central Kapangan and the factors influencing their health outcomes. Findings will inform
the development of targeted interventions and policies to improve child nutrition and overall
well-being in the community.
7. Conclusion
The study proposes a comprehensive investigation into child nutrition in Central Kapangan,
integrating quantitative and qualitative methods to explore the complex interplay of factors
affecting child health. By addressing the research objectives outlined in this proposal, the study
aims to contribute to the body of knowledge on child nutrition and inform evidence-based
interventions for improving child health outcomes in the community.