ANALYSIS OF POSYANDU'S ROLE IN IMPROVING MOTHERS’ AWARENESS OF BALANCED NUTRITION FOR YOUNG CHILDREN

This study aims to analyze the role of Posyandu in increasing mothers' awareness of balanced nutrition in Rowosari Village. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with 13 informants, consisting of 4 mothers of young children, 8 Posyandu cadres, and 1 midwife. The results of the thematic analysis based on role theory revealed five main indicators: role expectations, role performance, role pressures, role support, and evaluation-innovation. The findings indicate that Posyandu plays a crucial role as a center for community nutrition information and education; however, it faces challenges such as low mother participation, limited Posyandu cadres, insufficient training, and inflexible education schedules. Nevertheless, the cadres demonstrated initiative through practice-based educational innovations and digital approaches. This study emphasizes that the effectiveness of Posyandu is highly dependent on cross-sectoral support, cadre capacity, and contextual and interactive educational approaches.