OBJECTIVE: To identify and analyze the meanings of the mothers' participation in looking after their undernourished child. METHODS: An ethnographic approach was adopted, focusing on group dynamics within the family. RESULTS: Family influence in undernourished child care and the prevention of current and future practices related to the factors impede quality care. CONCLUSION: The cultural meanings that guide mothers, in terms of care, support, education and culture, are sustained by the social structure and have direct effects on the quality of people's life, as individuals and as social groups.
Child nutrition disorders; Health promotion; Culture; Child health; Family