Welfare Research Articles

The profession of health mediator and its practice in multi-professional health centres

Although little-known, health mediation is already being deployed in a variety of settings (associations, municipalities, health centers, etc.), and plays a vital role in access to rights and healthcare, thanks to its position at the interface between the medical and social sectors. Social insecurity, disability, loss of autonomy, the digital divide and language barriers are all obstacles likely to hinder access to healthcare and social assistance. Thanks to their knowledge of healthcare networks, social services and local associations, health mediators can help people gain access to their rights and healthcare.

The Politics of Social Welfare: The BJP and the Discerning Voter

Voting studies tell us that voters reward incumbents who take care of the economic self-interest of voters. However, is the relationship between services and votes simple and straightforward? Are there conditions when welfare provisioning does not convert into votes for the incumbent? Data from the National Election Studies 2024 appears to suggest that voters are discerning and concerned about access issues when it comes to welfare delivery. Voters do not cast their votes only on whether they received private (welfare) benefits but also consider factors such as their experience and well-being while accessing those goods and services. Examining the relationship between welfare services and voting, the article demonstrates that individual-level processes are politically significant enough to influence vote choices between the benefits and the votes. These findings could inform scholarly studies and policy debates on social service delivery and vote choice.

How political ideology relates to political branding in the United States: A longitudinal analysis of the 2016, 2018, and 2020 elections

Do republican voters always care about financial security? Do democrat voters always want care for immigrants? This research examines political ideology aspects over a period of three election cycles in the United States to study the ideological connections with republican and democrat voters. These relationships are important to understand as political candidates use marketing strategies to create and maintain their brand image, and thus, turn themselves into “brandidates.” Unlike those existing studies that focus on how to build a political brand image, this research examines how voter political ideology is related to the branded image candidates build for themselves. This research assesses this relationship over three election cycles (2016, 2018, 2020) allowing us to understand, through a longitudinal analysis, not only the strength of these relationships, but also which ideologies are un/stable in their association with specific political candidates/parties. Ten constructs are employed to measure the aspects of political ideology and are linked together through the overarching framework of integrated threat theory and are primarily explained by the three theories of social identity, economic insecurity, and systems justification. Practically, these findings can be used by candidates, campaign managers, political parties, and marketing consultants to better connect with the electorate and appeal to existing supporters, undecided voters, and possibly those from other parties.

A intersetorialidade entre as políticas públicas de saúde e de assistência social para pessoas em situação de rua

This article analyzes public health policies for homeless people in Brazil, from the perspective of citizenship in the Brazilian state. From an analytical perspective based on historical dialectics, it analyzed public health policies for homeless people and their intersectoriality with public social assistance policies related to the same users in the Democratic Rule of Law model. It was found that the intersectoriality between Thé aforementioned public policies is fundamental to the success of a welcoming, comprehensive and inclusive provision of public services, as a measure to achieve the existential minimum for homeless people.

Understanding Return to Work After a Cancer-Related Sickness Absence. Perceptions of Barriers and Facilitators Among all Relevant Stakeholders.

The aim of this study was to examine the themes acting as barriers or facilitators, from diagnosis and sickness absence (SA) to RTW and work retention, after a cancer-related SA from the perspectives of all stakeholders in the Spanish setting. Descriptive qualitative approach with a socio-constructivist perspective. Theoretical sampling was carried out until saturation. Six discussion groups (4-8 people/group) were conducted: three groups of people with a cancer-related SA in Catalonia (Spain), one with oncology care professionals, and two with company representatives. An additional individual interview was conducted with a primary care physician. The sessions were held virtually and were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis and mixed coding. Barriers to RTW and work retention detected by stakeholders included insufficient information and guidance on the impact of cancer on work and SA management, lack of general knowledge and recognition of side effects, lack of consideration of job tasks by medical tribunals, and working in precarious employment. Facilitators included workplace support, psycho-oncologists, patient associations, and working for a public company. Both work interruption due to an SA and RTW, are key moments for determining cancer survivors' work retention. We found a general perception of lack of involvement of the social security system, companies, and health professionals in Spain in the impact of cancer on work. Integrating the work sphere in cancer care from the beginning of cancer treatment, and by all stakeholders, could facilitate successful future RTW.

Electricity storage or transmission? Comparing social welfare between electricity arbitrages

Electricity storage and inter-regional transmission are expected to play a greater role in mitigating the power surplus caused by the large-scale introduction of solar power generation. In this study, we evaluate the impacts of these two power arbitrages and provide their welfare implications. We develop a simple analytical framework based on the demand and supply in the power market, and apply the framework to Kyushu area in Japan to quantify the social benefits of current storage and transmission practice. We estimate electricity demand curves and define supply curves from the data to describe the social impacts of the two arbitrages. Our main findings can be summarized as follows. First, the estimation results indicate that the price elasticity of electricity demand is −0.228 and −0.252 in high and low solar hours, respectively. Second, the results show that the current storage and transmission operations provide social benefits of 73,000 and 59,000 USD per day, respectively. Third, both arbitrages lead to external benefits by reducing CO2 emissions from thermal power generation. These results suggest that the current storage and transmission operations provide positive social benefits without detrimental effects on consumer, producer or environment. Therefore, both storage and transmission are preferable measures for mitigating the impact of variable solar power generation on society and the environment.

Impact of an online awareness session on the knowledge and attitude of social welfare professionals towards voluntary body donation

Impact of an online awareness session on the knowledge and attitude of social welfare professionals towards voluntary body donation

Healthcare Practitioners’ perspectives on paediatric burns management at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Ghana

BackgroundPaediatric burns pose significant challenges in healthcare management. Paediatric burns require specialized care due to the distinct anatomical and physiological characteristics of children, which make them more vulnerable to complications. In resource-limited settings like Ghana, the absence of adequate supplies and standardized protocols can exacerbate these challenges, necessitating the need for a comprehensive understanding of the perspectives of healthcare practitioners involved in their care.Study Objective.To explore healthcare practitioners’ perspectives on paediatric burns management at a tertiary hospital, Ghana, covering current practices, barriers, impacts on patients and families, and recommendations for improvement. MethodologyThis study employed a qualitative research approach utilizing Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with 15 participants from various disciplines, including Plastic Surgery, Medicine, Anaesthetics, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Dietetics, Nursing, Pharmacy, Clinical Psychology, Public Health Nursing and. Laboratory Scientist. Participants were recruited through a convenience sampling technique. The discussion lasting approximately 90 min, were audio recorded, and facilitated by a discussion guide based on existing literature. The audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, and the transcripts were compared with handwritten notes for accuracy. The final transcribed data were coded and analyzed using thematic content analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. ResultsFindings revealed four primary themes: strengths of current practices (multidisciplinary approach, experienced practitioners), barriers (lack of formal protocols, infrastructure limitations, financial burdens), contextual factors influencing burn care (psychological trauma, inadequate support, socio-cultural beliefs and socioeconomic status), and recommendations for enhancing burns care (improved social welfare, facility upgrades, staff training and mental health support). ConclusionWhile burns care has improved in Ghana, there are clear opportunities for improvement. A move towards more integrated care, the development of locally adapted protocols, better financial support, and enhanced caregiver education are essential next steps in elevating the quality of paediatric burn management in Ghana.

Artificial intelligence and public governance models in socioeconomic welfare: some insights from Slovenia

This paper investigates the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in public governance and its impact on socioeconomic welfare, focusing on Slovenian Social Work Centres (SWCs). The objectives are to assess how AI applications align with governance models such as (Neo)Weberian Bureaucracy, New Public Management (NPM), and Good Governance, and to evaluate their effectiveness in promoting socioeconomic welfare. Furthermore, the study aims to identify opportunities and risks associated with AI in public governance and to provide policy recommendations for the ethical and effective integration of AI. A mixed-methods approach is adopted, comprising a comprehensive literature review to develop a theoretical framework, a cross-tabulation analysis of the European Commission's dataset of 686 AI use cases in 27 EU Member States, and a case study of AI implementation in Slovenian SWCs. This includes the analysis of administrative data from 2018–2022 on the e-Welfare platform and analysis of reports from Slovenian oversight bodies such as the Court of Audit, the Administrative Inspection, and the Human Rights Ombudsman. The results show that AI significantly improves administrative efficiency, particularly in the areas of resource management, cost-effectiveness, and service quality, which closely align with NPM principles. However, challenges remain in terms of transparency and accountability, as AI systems are often not transparent, making oversight difficult and jeopardising public trust, especially in the area of social welfare. The study concludes that while AI has significant potential to improve public governance, appropriate regulation and human oversight are essential to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with governance principles. The study provides valuable insights into the role of AI in administrative efficiency and is therefore relevant to policymakers, public officials, and researchers aiming to leverage AI's benefits while ensuring ethical governance and equitable socioeconomic outcomes.

"Aging Amplifies Challenges": A Descriptive Phenomenological Exploration of the Lived Experiences andNeeds of Elderly Individuals With Schizophrenia.

Older adults diagnosed with schizophrenia face unique public health challenges, with specific treatment needs, complex care demands, accelerated aging, and increased susceptibility to health issues. This phenomenological study explored the existential realities and needs of older adults diagnosed with schizophrenia. Fifteen participants, with a mean age of 69.47 (SD ± 9.47) years, ranging from 62 to 79 years old and hailing from rural regions, participated in the study. Four main themes and eight sub-themes emerge: compounding the burden (challenges in symptom management, comorbidities); the abyss of a life filled with emptiness (loss of mental pillars, living in agony); living on the margins of society (the vicious cycle of social and self-isolation, unattainable social welfare); and glimmer of light in the darkness (support systems, self-adjustment). The study calls for healthcare professionals to improve follow-up care efficiency, strengthen engagement, understand patients' living conditions and needs, enforce existing welfare policies for older mentally ill patients, and enhance their mental health and quality of life.

Sentiment analysis as an information agenda and public opinion research method (on the example of Chinese mass media and social networks)

The information agenda broadcast by Chinese media resources is a source of up-to-date data on public opinion on key issues of social welfare. Due to the technical peculiarities of the organization of Chinese websites and the need to attract additional resources for automatic processing (parsing) of texts in Chinese, this topic is not widely represented in domestic and foreign studies. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the methodology and results of public opinion estimation on the example of data collected from Chinese media and social networks based on a trained sentiment analysis model of Chinese text data. The ML model was used to comparatively analyze Chinese language content on urban infrastructure development issues for the period 2020–2022. The results are presented in the format of sentiment distribution charts based on media and social media data by month over a 2-year period. It is revealed that the level of sentiment differs significantly depending on the type of data source. A steady prevalence of positive sentiment in mass media and negative sentiment in social networks was determined, which can be explained by differences in the composition of text authors, restrictions imposed on the content published in the sources, as well as different purposes of resource use by users.

Chinese migrant workers’ integration into cities and land transfer amid urban–rural population mobility

Following the economic reforms and opening up, the Chinese government has implemented policies aimed at promoting land transfer, yet the rate of rural land transfer continues to be relatively low, resulting in inefficient land use in rural regions. The movement of people from rural to urban areas is a key driver of land transfer, and the level of integration of migrant workers in urban settings is closely tied to their decisions to transfer land. We analyzed survey data from 1,533 migrant worker households using a binary logistic regression model and conducted an endogeneity test with a two-stage least squares model. The findings indicate that economic, social, psychological, and identity integration, as well as overall urban integration, have a significant positive impact on the likelihood of land transfer, the involvement of non-relatives in transfers, and the length of time land is transferred.Economic integration significantly influences the decision of migrant workers to transfer land, social integration plays a substantial role in transfers involving non-relatives, and psychological and identity integration significantly affects the duration of land transfers. In summary, the analysis recommends that policymakers prioritize fostering a more inclusive urban environment for migrant workers, enhance employment opportunities and social security services for this group, and facilitate the participation of migrant workers in the land transfer market to maximize the value of their land assets.

Comparative Analysis of Government Regulatory Compliance: A Case of Kenya, China and USA

The importance of regulatory compliance in ensuring that laws and related public policies accomplish their intended goals, which include promoting social and economic development and protecting important aspects of public welfare in a nation cannot be gainsaid. Championing regulatory compliance is a crucial part of international development work, as much as it is frequently overlooked. Studies reveal that the "volume" and harshness of enforcement do not always correspond with compliance and regulatory outcomes, that compliance is not always the intended result of regulations, and that compliance is not always the automatic consequence of regulations. Robust data also indicates that regulations, regulatory administration, procedures, and systems that are not well-designed can impede economic expansion and serve as a breeding ground for corruption. This study digs into the complexities of government regulation compliance in the ever-evolving field of e-commerce, providing a comparative examination among three very different jurisdictions: Kenya, the United States and China. The purpose of the study is to clarify the constantly changing regulatory environment that oversees Internet commerce by investigating the legal frameworks, enforcement strategies, and commercial ramifications that arise for companies that operate in these various areas. The research endeavors to enable cross-border cooperation and enlighten policymakers on effective regulatory strategies to balance innovation, consumer protection, and industrial growth by identifying commonalities and discrepancies in regulatory approaches. This research offers a contemporary overview of the legislative frameworks driving the digital marketplace in various regions, as e-commerce continues to redefine global trade dynamics.

Assessing the Emission Reduction Policies on Global Value Chains: The Renewable Energy Policy Framework

To mitigate climate change problems, a low-carbon renewable energy policy is needed. Evaluating the impact of these problems on global value chains is essential to ensure an effective transition to sustainable economic development. This study analyzes the impact of emission reduction policies on Global Value Chains (GVC) using the Global Trade Analysis Project-Energy (GTAP-E) model by addressing three fundamental research questions. First, how does the implementation of B40 renewable energy policy combined with carbon tax affect Indonesia’s energy sector output and carbon emissions? Second, to what extent does this policy influence Indonesia’s participation in GVC, particularly in the crude palm oil (CPO) industry? Third, what are the implications for economic growth and social welfare? Our analysis focuses on the CPO sector, considering Indonesia’s position as the world’s largest producer and its potential for sustainable biofuel production through clean technological processes. The results of this study show that the policy effectively reduces carbon emissions through decreased fossil fuel production while promoting renewable energy adoption. It significantly increases Indonesia’s forward GVC participation in the CPO sector, enhancing value addition and international competitiveness. Furthermore, the policy generates positive impacts on economic growth and social welfare. This study emphasizes the importance of international policy coordination and the crucial role of technological innovation in achieving sustainable economic development for a low-carbon economy and strengthening Indonesia’s position in the global value chain.

Decision Making by Trade-In Programs in the E-Commerce Supply Chain, Considering Cash Rebate Strategies and Platform Services

As the consumer market becomes more saturated, the e-commerce supply chain (E-SC) has introduced the trade-in program in an attempt to drive consumption. This paper considers the strategy of the E-SC to provide cash rebates for consumers participating in the trade-in program and incorporates the e-commerce platform’s trade-in service efforts into the E-SC’s decision-making system. Depending on who provides the cash rebate, we construct four decision-making models of the E-SC, i.e., the no-cash-rebate model, the manufacturer model, the platform model, and the cooperative model, where both the manufacturer and the platform jointly provide the cash rebate. We show that the platform model reduces the trade-in service level, but the manufacturer model increases the trade-in service level. In addition, since the cash rebate increases operation costs, the sale price of products is inevitably improved. Furthermore, the platform model raises product demand, but the manufacturer model lowers product demand. The cooperative model proves effective in enhancing demand only when the manufacturer contributes a minor share of the cash rebate and the trade-in service is less efficient. Cash rebates can increase the E-SC’s profits, but the degree of this increase becomes smaller as the cash rebates increase. The manufacturer and the platform always want to exploit each other’s cash rebate strategies. Consumer surplus and social welfare are highest in the platform model and lowest in the manufacturer model. Taking into account the profits, consumer surplus, and social welfare, the platform model is the most conducive to E-SC system operations.

The Impact of Neoliberal Policies on Social Welfare: Case Studies in Developing Countries

The Impact of Neoliberal Policies on Social Welfare: Case Studies in Developing Countries

사회복지학 전공 대학생의 팀 기반 학습(TBL) 과정에 관한 질적 연구

This study is a qualitative study for the holistic understanding of the Team-Based Learning (TBL) process conducted in social welfare subjects. By examining the research participants' perceptions through their practical experiences with TBL, this study aims to derive suggestions necessary for the instructional design and implements of TBL conducted for their major subjects. The data collection conducted a team-by-team interview with 24 students who took the "Social Welfare Administration Theory" subject(2nd semester of 2022), at department of social welfare in J university. TBL was conducted 13 times in this class. In the data analysis, the raw data was analyzed using open coding and categorization based on abstract meaning units. As a result of the analysis, 8 categories and 18 subcategories were derived. The TBL process was in the initial, middle, and terminal stages. At the initial stage, themes such as ‘felt pressured with TBL’, ‘spontaneous and horizontal team building’, and ‘time management-based team learning activities in class’ were derived. At the middle stage, ‘discovering the value of applying knowledge’, ‘recovering relationships due to the covid-19’ and professor's ‘scaffolding that suggested directions’, ‘team interaction of adjustment and compromise’ were derived. At the terminal stage, the students were able to outcomes ‘learning results that would not have been possible on their own’. Based on this, we make the following suggestions. Firstly, it requires creating an spontaneous atmosphere, secondly, building up relationships among team members, and finally, needing appropriate scaffolding which providing a guide.

Community and Correctional Relations Management: Building Trust and Social Security

This study aims to analyse the effectiveness of relationship management strategies and practices between Teluk Penyu Beach community and Nusakambangan correctional institution in building trust and reducing social stigma against inmates. The methods used in this study include literature studies and field surveys. Literature studies were conducted to review relevant literature, while in-depth surveys and interviews were used to obtain empirical data from the surrounding community, correctional staff, and former inmates. The results of the study show that the geographical proximity between Teluk Penyu Beach and Nusakambangan requires strategic relationship management. The measures taken, such as managing public perception, improving communication, developing empowerment programs, and operational transparency, have proven effective in reducing social stigma. Stigma analysis graphs reveal that the "Passing and Covering" strategy is most dominant used to manage stigma, while "Discrediting" and "Spoiled Identity" remain significant but less dominant. This study concludes that a holistic and tolerant approach to relationship management between correctional institutions and communities plays an important role in creating harmonious relationships and supporting the social reintegration of ex-convicts.

Contextualization of Ushul Fiqh in Muamalah and Modern Banking: Sharia Solutions in the Global Economic System

This study examines the application of ushul fiqh, the foundational discipline of Islamic jurisprudence, in modern Islamic banking and its implications for the global economic system. Using a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology, this research analyzes academic contributions from 2018 to 2024, focusing on the integration of Islamic principles into banking practices. The findings reveal that ushul fiqh significantly reduces financial instability through principles like the prohibition of riba (interest), reduction of gharar (uncertainty), and emphasis on maslahat (public welfare). These principles align economic transactions with ethical values, fostering inclusivity and sustainability. However, challenges such as regulatory standardization and integration into global markets persist. Despite these, the study identifies substantial growth opportunities for Islamic banking, especially with the rise of sharia-compliant Fintech solutions. This research highlights the potential of ushul fiqh as a transformative tool for promoting justice and resilience in global financial systems while meeting the ethical demands of modern economies

Training on Strengthening Fishery Business Groups in Development In Lambusa Village, Konda District, South Konawe Regency

The Training on Strengthening Fishery Business Groups in Lambusa Village, Konda District, South Konawe Regency, succeeded in improving the skills and knowledge of villagers in the cultivation, processing, and marketing of fishery products. Participatory training methods involving counseling and practice have proven to be effective in building internal group relationships as well as connectivity with governments, financial institutions, and market participants. The training includes fishery resource management, sustainable aquaculture techniques, marketing, and financial management, which supports increasing the productivity and income of fishery business groups. As a result, there has been an increase in solidarity and cooperation between members, as well as village social and economic welfare. The training also strengthens the concept of community empowerment through a participatory and sustainable approach, providing applicative skills to overcome concrete problems and achieve self-reliance. The evaluation showed the high enthusiasm of the participants and the significant application of knowledge, contributing to the sustainable development of the village and the capacity building of the fishery business group.