Social Services Research Articles

Social Work in Mainland China: Past, Present, and Future

Since the reform and opening-up in 1978, China has made great progress in the reconstruction and development of social work profession. From a historical perspective, this article first describes China’s distinct approach to social work development over the past century. It then introduces the four main social work service delivery models now often adopted in China, including the university-community partnership model, the organizationally embedded service model, services provided by the local semiprofessional social workers, and the social work practice research model. Finally, the future directions for China’s social work development from a “big social work” perspective are discussed.

Competencies of Social Workers at the Sentra Terpadu Pangudi Luhur Bekasi Following the Multi-Service System Transformation

The transformation of social service centers into integrated service centers within the Ministry of Social Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia has brought significant changes to the management and practice of social services. This transformation demands that social workers adapt from providing specific services to multi-service approaches for various beneficiary groups. The policy aims to optimize the function of Technical Implementation Units (UPT) as extensions of the Ministry of Social Affairs in regional areas. This study focuses on the Sentra Terpadu Pangudi Luhur in Bekasi, one of the largest centers in Indonesia, to explore the competencies of social workers in addressing these challenges. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through interviews and observations involving social workers and the center's management. The results indicate that several dimensions of social worker competencies at the Sentra Terpadu Pangudi Luhur Bekasi do not fully meet the standards set out in Ministerial Regulation No. 12 of 2017 on Social Worker Competency Standards. These underdeveloped competency dimensions include Knowledge, General Skills, Specialized Skills, and Attitude. Social workers without an educational background in social welfare/social work tend to rely on practical experience, while those with such an educational background are more capable of integrating theory into practice. The study identifies competency gaps affecting service quality, with social workers from non-social work backgrounds often making intuitive decisions. Furthermore, challenges in the "inpassing" process highlight the need for a deeper understanding of the diverse needs of beneficiaries. These findings highlight the importance of continuous competency development and adaptive education for social workers to meet the increasingly complex demands of services and to respond effectively to the needs of society.

Does staff gender matter for project performance in international organizations? Evidence from the Asian Development Bank

ABSTRACT The performance of aid projects matters for development. Yet what shapes performance is insufficiently understood. According to interdisciplinary research on organisational management and bureaucratic representation, the gender of operational leaders in complex organisations can have a discernible effect on all aspects of the project cycle. Using a novel dataset specifically constructed for this research from complete documentation available for 3,500 Asian Development Bank projects, the analysis examines whether the gender of project leaders matters in explaining variation in project performance. These projects are targeted financial investments and technical support programmes implemented by Asian Development Bank in developing countries to build infrastructure, strengthen social services, and boost economic development. The study tests this relationship using multinomial-ordered logistic regressions and entropy matching. Testing the hypothesis that women’s leadership positively influences project outcomes, the analysis finds significant positive associations with efficiency ratings, while associations with relevance, effectiveness, and sustainability, though positive, are not statistically significant. This article contributes to the literature by estimating the differential impact of women vs men project managers on disaggregated performance measures. This research establishes potential mechanisms and opens avenues for future discourse.

The Complementarity of Programme Logic and Critical Systems Heuristics: Critical Systems Practice for the Evaluation of Emergency Relief in Australia

ABSTRACTThe research aim was to improve the outcomes of Australia's Emergency Relief programme by applying the multiperspective multimethodological critical systems thinking and practice. Emergency Relief was designed as a short‐term intervention to assist people facing a financial crisis; however, it was evident and considered problematic that many beneficiaries had an ongoing reliance on the programme. The application of programme logic, the prevailing best practice approach to social services design and evaluation in Australia, demonstrated its strength by revealing opportunities to improve service delivery models through staff training, referral systems, colocation and case management. The application of critical systems heuristics revealed that unintended adverse consequences could result from ‘payment by outcomes’ commissioning and welfare conditionality. The research makes a methodological contribution to systems and evaluation literature by demonstrating the complementarity of programme logic and critical systems heuristics, and the strength in the multiperspective multimethodological approach of critical systems thinking and practice.

The impact of agricultural production agglomeration on agricultural economic resilience: based on spatial spillover and threshold effect test

This study focuses on the role of agricultural production agglomeration in strengthening agricultural economic resilience, exploring the threshold effect of agricultural technological innovation level and the spatial spillover effect of agricultural production agglomeration on agricultural economic resilience. We conducted research across 31 provinces (including autonomous regions and municipalities) in China from 2007 to 2022. By constructing the evaluation index system of agricultural economic resilience, the entropy value method is used to measure the value of agricultural economic resilience, and then kernel density estimation and spatial econometrics model, threshold regression model are used to analyze the relationship between agricultural production agglomeration, agricultural technological innovation and agricultural economic resilience. (1) The analysis of the spatiotemporal evolution trend shows that the overall level of China’s agricultural economic resilience continued to rise, and presented a spatial development pattern of “high in the east and low in the west.” The overall level of agricultural production agglomeration in China shows a trend of first rising and then falling, among which the level of agricultural production agglomeration in the central region is significantly higher than that in the northwest and southeast regions. (2) The spatial Durbin model shows that agricultural production agglomeration can not only effectively improve the level of local agricultural economic resilience, but also have a positive impact on neighboring agriculture economic resilience produces positive spatial spillover effects. (3) Agricultural production agglomeration can improve the level of agricultural economic resilience by promoting agricultural social service. (4) The impact of agricultural production agglomeration on agricultural economic resilience shows great differences in different geographical regions. Among them, agricultural production agglomeration in the central region has a significant positive impact on the agricultural economic resilience of both local and adjacent areas. (5) The threshold effect model shows that the impact of agricultural production agglomeration on agricultural economic resilience has significant nonlinear characteristics, and its impact shows an increasing marginal effect as the level of agricultural technological innovation increases. To address this, policymakers should reinforce agricultural cluster construction, boost innovation capacity and treasure spillover effects between regions. These insights provide valuable direction for policymakers in crafting effective measures to enhance agricultural economic resilience.

Labor Engine or Welfare Trap: New Evidence from the Impact of China's Long-Term Care Insurance Policies on Labor Market Performance

The long-term care insurance system is a crucial social service policy for disabled and elderly individuals with dementia in the context of the unfeasible traditional family old-age care model. Through the support of the social insurance model for old-age care security, it effectively addresses and meets the actual needs of long-term care recipients. This has become a significant way to alleviate the burden of disabled and demented elderly individuals, mitigate the impacts of ageing, and create employment opportunities for family caregivers. Using the long-term care insurance pilot policy implemented in Qingdao in 2012 as a quasi-natural experiment, this paper estimates the influence of long-term care insurance on the labor market performance of the pilot city using the synthetic control method of project policy evaluation. Several robustness tests of the labor market effects of long-term care insurance are conducted, utilizing two placebo methods based on time and space, and the ranked test method. The study's findings demonstrate that the implementation of the long-term care insurance policy pilot has a constructive influence on the employment choices of workers in the labor market. Specifically, it encourages participation in the workforce and expands the scale of labor force participation in the pilot cities. Furthermore, the policy's effect strengthens over time and has a marked positive effect on average employee wages, thereby spurring labor supply growth. Through further analysis, it can be determined that the pilot cities have contributed to an average annual growth of around 1 million people in total labor force participation between 2013-2017, surpassing the potential growth rate by approximately 10.5%. Additionally, during this period, the average employee wage displays a linear upward trend with a maximum increase of over 5,000 pounds per capita per year. This suggests a substantial effect on the overall performance of the labor market due to its growth-promoting influence. In addition, the analysis of the heterogeneity of its impact mechanism demonstrates that the long-term care insurance policy aims to enhance the willingness of tertiary industry workers to work and considerably increase the likelihood of their entry into the labor market. It also improves labor income expectations of urban private and self-employed workers, resulting in a virtuous circle of enhanced labor and employment driven by the increased value of labor and the strengthened willingness to participate.

The Influence Work Discipline on Community Satisfaction at the East Luwu Regency Social Service Office

Community satisfaction is one of the most important variables in determining the result of a service. Therefore, the implementation of employee discipline must be implemented so that employee performance can be more optimal. The purpose of this study is to determine the influence of employee work discipline on community satisfaction at the East Luwu Regency Social Service office. This research is classified as bivariate research with a quantitative approach. The sample in this study amounted to 96 people from East Luwu Regency using probability sampling techniques. In this study, the data collection techniques used are questionnaires, observations and documentation. The data analysis techniques used in this study are descriptive statistical analysis and inferential statistical analysis. The results of the study show that the variables of employee work discipline at the East Luwu Regency Social Service Office are in the good category with indicators, namely time discipline, regulatory discipline, and responsibility discipline, while the variables of community satisfaction are in the good category with indicators, namely the suitability of expectations, performance perception, and community assessment. Based on the results of the product moment correlation test, the relationship between variables is strong. Based on the results of a simple linear regression analysis, it was concluded that there was a positive and significant influence between employee work discipline and community satisfaction at the East Luwu Regency Social Service Office

Влияние перинатального анамнеза несовершеннолетних правонарушителей на формирование их личности

Relevance of the problem. Adverse perinatal events resulting from a complex combination of social, physiological and environmental factors may be associated with an increased risk of developing criminogenic behavior in minors. The purpose of this study was to expand knowledge about biological risk factors, including adverse perinatal events, for the formation of a psychophysiological portrait of a juvenile offender. Material and methods of the study. A retrospective cohort non-randomized continuous study of the anamnesis of mothers (148 people) whose children were convicted of illegal actions was conducted.Results and discussion. The following were revealed: immature attitude of mothers to contraception (high difference in parity, repeated termination of pregnancy for social reasons; inattentive attitude to pregnancy (late registration or failure to attend antenatal clinics), insufficient overall weight gain during pregnancy, hypotension of pregnant women, late gestosis of pregnant women, home births; social diseases during pregnancy (socially significant diseases, sexually transmitted infections, maternal hypotrophy); unfavorable psychosocial background of pregnancy (inadequate behavior during childbirth, abandonment of the child, registration with the PND, registration of the family with social services, lack of education of the mother). Children with such a perinatal history develop a special personality type characteristic of organic pathopsychological syndrome. Conclusion. The results convincingly indicate an increased risk of personality disorder among children born to mothers with unfavorable obstetric-gynecological, somatic and social history. It is necessary to take into account the anatomical and physiological predicates of criminogenic behavior, since they can help in creating a preventive medical and social youth policy and avoid high levels of morbidity, mortality and social stigmatization among juvenile offenders.

Randomized controlled trial of a pilot PrEP linkage intervention for individuals leaving incarceration in a southern state: Design and baseline characteristics.

We report baseline characteristics of a pilot intervention, PrEP-Link, which uses a community health worker (CHW) model to provide navigation to PrEP, the daily HIV preventative medication, and other medical and social services upon release from incarceration. This pilot study uses a randomized controlled trial design. The control group receives enhanced standard of care, and the intervention receives enhanced standard of care plus personalized navigation services from the CHW for up to one year. PrEP-Link is modeled after the Transitions Clinic Program, where a CHW who has lived experience of incarceration builds close relationships with individuals and community partners. After COVID-19 restrictions prevented recruitment within local jails, recruitment for this study took place in local reentry centers which house individuals as they near completion of their jail or prison sentence. Data are collected at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months. Planning and reporting was guided by the CONSORT 2010 checklist. We enrolled 80 participants between September 2021 and April 2023. Thirty-nine participants were assigned to the control group and forty-one to the intervention group. Data collected at baseline included measures of PrEP usage, HIV risk, drug and alcohol use, healthcare usage, and history of incarceration. Analysis of baseline characteristics show comparability of both demographic and HIV-related risk factors between the two arms. At baseline, participants had high clinical indication for potential PrEP benefit, particularly with respect to self-reported intravenous drug use and condomless sex. Participants responded with high PrEP acceptability within both study arms. Participants reported low preventative healthcare utilization at baseline. Barriers to accessing PrEP among the study population are significant. Results of this pilot RTC will help inform CHW lead PrEP-linkage interventions for people leaving incarceration.

A systems perspective on gaps in the person-centered sick leave and rehabilitation process: a Swedish interview study

Background Consensus on priorities to optimize the sick leave and rehabilitation process (SRP) is lacking. Objective To explore perspectives of stakeholders in the SRP on bridging the gap between desired process scope, and actual practice, from a multi-professional, multi-organizational, and interdisciplinary approach. Design and setting Focus group interviews were conducted with various SRP frontline professionals in Region Västra Götaland, Sweden, using purposive sampling to capture a range of experiences. Participants discussed their perceptions of critical changes and priorities needed to meet patients’ SRP needs in a primary care context. All interviews were analyzed using systematic text condensation, as described by Malterud. Subjects General practitioners (n = 6), rehabilitation coordinators and licensed healthcare professionals from primary healthcare (n = 13), administrators from the Social Insurance Agency, the Employment Agency and Social Services (n = 12). Results Through data analysis, the following themes emerged: 1) The need for rules and regulations to enable coherent process governance 2) Challenges and opportunities in person-centered SRP: Professional collaboration, organizational priorities, and the need for enhanced leadership, and 3) Balancing resources and patient needs in the SRP: How to improve care quality and accessibility. In summary, participants mainly discussed how to improve process efficiency and quality of care while balancing available resources and a heavy workload. A main goal was to prevent negative spirals of suboptimal decision-making in individual cases, which could lead to increased work, unfortunate outcomes, and patient suffering. Conclusions This qualitative study indicated that gaps between a desired process scope and actual practice might be bridged by enabling coherent cross-organizational process governance, prioritizing person-centered ways of working, and balancing available resources and workload. The above changes were believed to improve process quality and overall efficiency. Trial registration The study project plan was pre-registered on September 21st, 2020, in the database FOU i VGR (researchweb.org), project number 274941.

Sexual decision-making: an exploratory interview study of Cambodian adolescents

IntroductionThe rate of sexual activity among adolescents is very high, with serious repercussions such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted diseases. Understanding the factors that influence adolescents’ engagement in sexual activity is crucial for promoting healthy sexual attitudes and behaviors in schools, sex education programs, communities, and families. This study aimed to examine the factors influencing sexual decision-making among Cambodian adolescents.MethodsIn accordance with the Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR), this study used a descriptive qualitative methodology with individual interviews. The participants in the study were 30 Cambodian adolescents (15 males and 15 females) who were all unmarried and sexually active. They were recruited using various methods, including social networking services, and interviewed to explore their sexual decision-making processes.ResultsThe analysis revealed that the decision-making process was influenced by both internal and external factors. Internal factors included sexually explicit Internet material and arousal from sexy outfits, while external factors included foreign vs. Khmer culture, the surrounding environment including community, peers, and family, and educational advice received at school. Gender differences were noted in responses to stimuli like sexy outfits and perceptions of cultural norms.ConclusionsThis study underscores the complexity of adolescent sexual decision-making in Cambodia. It highlights the need for sex education that is not only comprehensive but also culturally sensitive, addressing the diverse influences on these adolescents. Future research should include a broader demographic group, including rural adolescents, to gain more comprehensive insights.Implications for practiceThis study uncovers how cultural norms, peers, and the media impact sexual behaviors, emphasizing the significant gender differences in these aspects. The findings shed light on the necessity of culturally sensitive and comprehensive sex education and the urgent need for tailored approaches to health promotion and education.

Dietary diversity and development among early childhood children in rural China

BackgroundEarly childhood is a critical period for cognitive development, heavily influenced by nutrition. Despite significant economic advancements, malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies persist in many low- and middle-income countries, including China, where dietary diversity remains suboptimal. Existing research predominantly relies on correlational data, underscoring the need for more rigorous empirical evidence. This study aims to fill that gap by providing stronger empirical evidence on the relationship between dietary diversity and developmental outcomes in rural Chinese children.MethodsWe conducted a longitudinal cohort study of 1,207 children aged 6–23 months, drawn from 100 villages across 22 counties in rural China, with three follow-up rounds extending until the children reached 51–83 months of age. Cognitive and non-cognitive development, as well as key health indicators, were evaluated. Cognitive development was measured using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development and the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence Fourth Edition. Non-cognitive development was assessed via the Ages and Stages Questionnaire: Social-Emotional and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Health indicators included anemia, frequency of illness in the past 2 weeks, and four key anthropometric measures (height-for-age z-scores, weight-for-age z-scores, weight-for-height z-scores, and body mass index-for-age z-scores). Multiple linear regression models were applied to analyze the relationship between dietary diversity scores (DDS) and developmental outcomes, incorporating child fixed effects and adjustments for time-variant confounders. We accounted for the hierarchical structure of the data by clustering standard errors at the village level, which also reflects the township level.ResultsThe regression analysis identified significant positive associations between DDS and cognitive (p < 0.01), as well as reduced illness incidence (p < 0.001) in children aged 6–54 months. Additionally, DDS demonstrated a strong positive effect on non-cognitive development (p < 0.001) in children 2 years and older. The associations between DDS, non-cognitive development (p < 0.01), and illnesses reduction (p < 0.001) remained robust under two-way fixed effects models.ImplicationsTo promote sustainable improvements in child development and health, policymakers should prioritize nutrition-focused interventions in rural areas. Community-based programs offering caregivers training and nutritional support, integrated within healthcare and social services infrastructures, are vital for ensuring families have the necessary resources enhance child wellbeing and long-term developmental outcomes.

Implementasi Program Rumah Anak Prestasi oleh Dinas Sosial Kota Surabaya

This research is motivated by the fulfillment of rights for children with special needs that need to be equal to other normal children. Inclusive schools and special schools cannot fulfill them due to several factors such as expensive costs, lack of facilities and qualified teaching staff for children with disabilities. The existence of the Rumah Anak Prestasi Program by the Surabaya City Social Service is a space for children with disabilities to develop their abilities. The results showed a positive response through David Corten's program implementation theory. Program and program implementers indicators show that RAP is a program that parents of children with disabilities look forward to. Complete and free facilities, as well as teaching staff who are in accordance with their fields are devoted to serving children with disabilities in the city of Surabaya. The target group indicators show that satisfaction from parents of children with disabilities at RAP Semolowaru is a positive response that can help the RAP program develop. The conclusion of this research is that the Semolowaru RAP program has successfully implemented to reduce the anxiety of parents and children with disabilities regarding stimulus training for children with disabilities in Surabaya City This research is motivated by the fulfillment of rights for children with special needs that need to be equal to other normal children. Inclusive schools and special schools cannot fulfill them due to several factors such as expensive costs, lack of facilities and qualified teaching staff for children with disabilities. The existence of the Rumah Anak Prestasi Program by the Surabaya City Social Service is a space for children with disabilities to develop their abilities. The results showed a positive response through David Corten's program implementation theory. Program and program implementers indicators show that RAP is a program that parents of children with disabilities look forward to. Complete and free facilities, as well as teaching staff who are in accordance with their fields are devoted to serving children with disabilities in the city of Surabaya. The target group indicators show that satisfaction from parents of children with disabilities at RAP Semolowaru is a positive response that can help the RAP program develop. The conclusion of this research is that the Semolowaru RAP program has successfully implemented to reduce the anxiety of parents and children with disabilities regarding stimulus training for children with disabilities in Surabaya City

Socioeconomic, health status and hospitalization aspects of adult patients referred to the social service of a tertiary hospital

ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to record and analyze socioeconomic, demographic and health profiles of adult patients referred to the Social Service of a tertiary Hospital, as well as to present additional hospitalization conditions.MethodsA retrospective hospital archive study containing all patients referred to the Social Service during a four-year period was conducted.ResultsThe study consisted of 350 patients (168 males) with mean age 70.1 years. Most of the patients were of Greek origin and singles or divorced. 184 patients (52.6%) were retired. The participants’ average income ranged between 500 and 1000 euro/month. Most of the patients were insured by the Government (public health insurance) and were hospitalized in Pathology and Covid Clinics, with a mean hospitalization level of 17.6 days. The main reasons for referral were admission to an Aged Care Unit and the need to investigate network support. The most frequently recorded diagnosis was Covid-19, while 103 (29.4%) patients had a mental illness problem. The analysis of associations between demographic characteristics with health dimensions showed significant differences.ConclusionsChanges in socioeconomic conditions have an impact on outpatient and inpatient care as well as on Greek social work practice and pose enormous challenges to social work professionals.

Canadian Clinical Guidelines on Social Isolation and Loneliness in Older Adults.

Preventing and addressing social isolation and loneliness among older adults is important because of the known associations with negative health outcomes. The Canadian Coalition for Seniors' Mental Health (CCSMH) took on the task of creating clinical guidelines. A multidisciplinary working group was established. The process was guided by an initial rapid scoping review of the literature focused on older adults. An adapted GRADE approach was utilized. CCSMH has produced first-ever clinical guidelines on social isolation and loneliness in older adults. Prevention, including recognition of risk factors and educational approaches focused on clinicians and students, is recommended. Targeted screening with validated tools is recommended. A comprehensive assessment is optimal to treat any underlying conditions and to identify contributing factors that may be responsive to psychosocial interventions. An individualized approach to interventions with shared decision-making is recommended. A variety of possible interventions include social prescribing, social activity, physical activity, psychological therapies, animal-assisted therapies and ownership, leisure skill development and activities, and the use of technology. The problem of social isolation and loneliness is a "geriatric" giant that needs to be recognized and addressed. Because of its complexity, it will require the collective attention of many individuals and organizations working together at multiple levels of society, to raise awareness and find solutions. We recommend that health-care and social service providers use these guidelines as a comprehensive tool to identify, assess, and implement strategies to reduce the negative impact of social isolation and loneliness.

A framework to conceptualize social prescribing services from a prevention perspective

ObjectiveSocial prescribing models are expanding worldwide to serve multiple goals, such as attending to social conditions that affect people's health, supporting patients with mental health issues or other long-term conditions, facilitating community building and reducing demands on the health care system. Implicitly, many social prescribing services seek to promote health, prevent morbidity or deterioration of disease. Given that the scientific literature currently does not systematically frame these services as preventive service models, we propose a framework to explicitly conceptualize social prescribing from a prevention perspective. MethodsBased on concepts from prevention science (e.g., classifications of prevention approaches), and a comparison of social prescribing models in different countries, we compiled a framework allowing to conceptualize, plan and evaluate social prescribing from a prevention perspective. Examples of social prescribing models were identified using systematic reviews and focused key-word-searches. ResultsOur framework outlines a systematic process for explicitly designing social prescribing models for prevention purposes. It consists of the following steps: defining target populations (e.g., young people with mild mental health issues), formulating intended outcomes (e.g., improved social participation), determining a prevention approach (e.g., universal or indicated prevention), deciding on the implementation setting (e.g., primary or specialized care) and selecting services for prescription (e.g., physical activity outdoors). ConclusionThe framework advances the field by guiding the conceptualization, development and evaluation of social prescribing services. It contributes to widening possible settings for social prescribing and considers potential adverse consequences. Thereby the framework opens up new avenues for social prescribing as preventive service model.

The Challenge of Church Leaders with the decline of Youth Spirituality during the period of the Society 5.0 Revolution

This research can provide theoretical advantages to provide new facts and important information about the progress of science in the field of Church leadership during the era of the 5.0 social revolution. This research will examine the problem which is a new phenomenon and has never been researched before. For this reason, a qualitative approach with a systematic literature review was chosen so that the results were more focused and in-depth. With this approach, researchers hope to gain a deeper understanding and produce a broader and more comprehensive picture of the issues researched. The paradigm shift towards digital integration in various fields, including education, social services, and churches, presents challenges and opportunities for conventional organizations, especially religious organizations. Church leaders must prioritize adaptability and agility to navigate the complexities of the new challenges of this era. Embracing technological advances and involving all church members, especially young people, is essential for effective religious ministry. By fostering strong relationships and promoting spiritual growth, Church leaders can guide their communities toward a prosperous and relevant future in the digital age.

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.

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.

Community Perception on the Effect of Cultural Livelihoods on the Environment in Kogi State, Nigeria

This study examines the cultural livelihood of Kogi State and its effects on the environment. The study describes some of the cultural livelihood practices found in Kogi State, considering the contemporary condition of cultural livelihood and its effects on the environment. Secondary and primary data were employed, which include archives and internet search engines. Using a 4-stage sampling procedure, data were collected from a 120-person sample through an interview, field observation, a focus group discussion, and a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics using frequencies, percentages, and charts were used for the analyses. The results were compiled using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Findings show that about 85% of the participants discovered crop farming, arable farming, weaving, blacksmithing, fishing, and festivals of harvest, such as the New Yam Festival, among others, as the predominant cultural livelihoods. The local farming implements were made of local materials, like stones and wood. They have indigenous crop production, protection, and harvest techniques. The farming tools were economical in terms of labor, affordability, and time savings in the subsistence farming system. The study discovered that cultural livelihoods are 4% very efficient and 56% on the verge of extinction. Analyses of the effect of cultural livelihood show that 78% have a high negative effect on the economic environment, 57% have a moderate negative effect on the social environment, 51% hurt the political environment, and 22% have a low negative effect on the political environment. The intervention of the various tiers of government with the cooperation of the various communities is needed for the provision of a conducive environment for the practice of cultural livelihood, particularly in the aspect of insecurity. Adequate provision of modern equipment, funding, and social welfare services is also recommended to enhance cultural livelihoods.