Enhancing maternal knowledge and child weight through self-help groups: a quasi-experimental study among mothers of weight-faltering children †

Objective Weight faltering is a significant concern that can lead to wasting and stunting. Establishing self-help groups (SHGs) within communities may improve maternal knowledge and attitudes toward stunting prevention. This study analyzed the impact of SHGs on child weight, maternal knowledge, and attitudes among mothers of children experiencing weight faltering. Methods This quasi-experimental study used a pretest and posttest design. Fifty-two mothers with infants aged 0–36 months experiencing weight faltering were recruited using purposive sampling. The intervention involved structured health education and training delivered through SHGs. Weight was measured using a standardized weight scale, while maternal knowledge and attitudes were assessed using validated questionnaires. Data analysis included paired t -tests and the Wilcoxon test for pre- and post-intervention comparisons. Pre–post changes were additionally modeled using generalized estimating equations (GEE), adjusted for maternal age, education, employment, child age, and sex; subgroup differences were explored with delta analyses. Results Significant improvements were observed in maternal knowledge ( P < 0.001) and maternal attitudes ( P < 0.001), and remained significant after adjustment (GEE β = 1.188, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.336–2.041, P = 0.006; β = 1.701, 95% CI 0.636–2.766, P = 0.002). Child weight increased modestly—significant on Wilcoxon ( P = 0.029) but not after multivariable adjustment (GEE β = 0.041, 95% CI – 0.665–0.747, P = 0.910). No significant subgroup differences were detected ( P > 0.05). Conclusions SHGs are an effective intervention for enhancing maternal knowledge and attitudes toward stunting prevention, resulting in improved child weight outcomes. Community health centers should establish health volunteer groups in collaboration with mothers’ groups to sustain these benefits. Future research with larger samples and longer follow-up periods is recommended to strengthen the evidence base.