<![CDATA[Stunting remains a public health issue with far-reaching impacts on the quality of human resources. The prevalence of stunting in the Labuan Community Health Center (Puskesmas) working area reached 34.2%, well above the national average (19.8%) and that of Central Sulawesi Province (26.1%). This study aimed to determine the relationship between a family empowerment model based on the Health Belief Model (HBM) and stunting prevention behaviors. An observational analytic study with a cross-sectional design was conducted, involving 84 mothers or caregivers of children aged 0–24 months in the Labuan Puskesmas working area, selected via purposive sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires assessing HBM constructs and stunting prevention behaviors. Analysis was performed using the Chi-Square test and multiple logistic regression. All HBM components were significantly associated with stunting prevention behaviors: perceived susceptibility (p=0.011), perceived severity (p=0.018), perceived benefits (p=0.004), perceived barriers (p=0.001), cues to action (p=0.001), and self-efficacy (p=0.000). Self-efficacy was the most dominant factor (OR=6.646; p=0.000). There is a significant relationship between all HBM components and stunting prevention behaviors. Stunting prevention interventions should prioritize strengthening family self-efficacy through practical guidance and the formation of self-help groups.]]>
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