Storytelling Approach of Family Planning Counselors in Persuasive Communication for Stunting Prevention in Seluma Regency

Stunting is a public health problem that is not only related to children’s physical growth but is also influenced by parenting practices, nutritional fulfillment, family habits, and the community’s ability to understand health information. Delivering stunting prevention messages requires a communication approach that is closely connected to everyday experiences so that the information can be easily understood and applied. This study aims to analyze the application of a storytelling approach by Family Planning Counselors in persuasive communication for stunting prevention in Dermayu Village, Air Periukan District, Seluma Regency. The study employed a qualitative descriptive method, with data collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The informants consisted of one Family Planning Counselor as the main informant, five community members who participated in counseling activities as supporting informants, and one field coordinator as an additional informant. Data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that storytelling supports the stages of persuasive communication involving attention, understanding, and message acceptance. Stories related to the community’s daily life successfully attracted participants’ interest. The use of simple language, local language, and real examples helped the community understand parenting practices, nutritional fulfillment, and stunting prevention. Message acceptance was reflected in positive responses and the application of the information in daily life. Therefore, storytelling is an effective communication approach for building closeness, clarifying health messages, and encouraging behavioral change in the community..