Social Programs Research Articles

Health shocks and households’ welfare in Ghana: does social assistance mitigate the effects?

PurposeHealth shocks are among the factors that have impeded households from experiencing better welfare. To mitigate the consequences of these shocks, individuals have sought to enrol in a formal insurance scheme or borrow from banks. This study estimates the effects of health shocks on households' welfare while examining the mitigating role of social assistance in Ghana.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilized the three-stage least squares and feasible generalized least squares to estimate the impact of health shocks on households' welfare.FindingsThe authors find that health shocks put households at risk, particularly disability and severe illness, which significantly limits individuals’ ability to smooth consumption to increase welfare. We further find that hospitalization due to illness significantly allows households to increase welfare through consumption. Finally, we find that social assistance has the potential to reduce these adverse effects of shocks conditioned on the type of shock and the outcome variable in question.Research limitations/implicationsFirst, we only used cross-sectional data for the two waves and therefore lacked panel data across time for analyses. Second, the data do not provide information on the exact amount of cash received by beneficiaries, so it was quite impossible to measure the exact effect of social assistance on welfare. We could only track whether or not having such assistance could mitigate the effect of a health shock.Practical implicationsThe practical implication of the findings is that Ghana needs to build a resilient health system in order to withstand the health shocks of individuals.Originality/valueNo study has attempted to investigate the differential effect of health shocks – hospitalization, disability and labour days lost due to illness in Ghana. Our choice is dependent on the fact that these shocks have been an issue for many households in Ghana, thus the need to examine their impact on individual well-being. Second, social assistance has been Ghana’s flagship social protection programme, but what is missing in the literature is whether this programme is capable of reducing the effect of health shocks faced by beneficiaries’ households in Ghana.

Analysis of Village Residents Receiving Social Assistance Using Linear Regression Method

This study aims to analyze the recipients of social assistance in Banyumas Village using the simple linear regression method. The research examines how household income affects the amount of social assistance received. Data was collected from the Banyumas Village Office, including information on income and the amount of social assistance received by residents. The results show a negative relationship between household income and the amount of assistance received, where higher income leads to smaller assistance. The model also demonstrates good accuracy with an average prediction error (MAPE) of 9.38%. Additionally, an R² value of 0.999972 indicates that the model can explain almost all variations in the data. This study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of the social assistance program in Banyumas Village and to help improve the program in the future.

State Social Expenditures and Preterm Birth and Low Birth Weight in the US

Adverse birth outcomes in the US, including preterm birth and low birth weight, are strongly tied to socioeconomic disadvantage and disproportionately impact infants of Black mothers. Increasing investments in social programs represents a potential policy approach to addressing disparities in birth outcomes. To examine state-level associations of government expenditures on social programs with rates of preterm birth and low birth weight both overall and by race. This cross-sectional, ecological study was conducted among liveborn infants in the 50 US states between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2019. Data analysis was performed from May 2022 to May 2024. Yearly state and local government expenditures per low-income person on social programs in the following categories: state refundable Earned Income Tax Credit; cash assistance; childcare assistance; housing and community development; and public health. Yearly state-level rates of preterm birth (gestational age <37 weeks) and low birth weight (<2500 g). From January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2019, there were 35.1 million live births in the US, of which 3.4 million (9.8%) were preterm and 2.8 million (8.1%) were low birth weight. Median (IQR) state social expenditures per low-income person were $1546 ($1074-$2323). Greater total state social expenditures were associated with lower overall rates of preterm birth (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] for every increase of $1000 per low-income person, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.97-0.999) but not with overall rates of low birth weight. In secondary analyses, greater state social expenditures were associated with lower preterm birth rates for infants of Black mothers (aPR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.92-0.999). Greater state expenditures specifically on cash assistance (aPR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.43-0.94) and housing and community development (aPR, 0.91; 95% CI, 0.84-0.98) were associated with lower preterm birth rates for infants of Black mothers. In this cross-sectional, ecological study, greater state-level expenditures on social programs were associated with reduced rates of preterm birth, particularly for infants of Black mothers. State and local governments may consider bolstering investments in cash assistance and housing and community development to address maternal and infant health disparities.

Evaluasi Sosialisasi Pencegahan Penggunaan Narkoba di Wilayah Jakarta: Studi pada Kelompok SLTP dan SLTA

Drug use by adolescents in Jakarta is an urgent public health problem. Many outreach programs have been created to stop drug abuse in schools. However, it is still unclear whether these programs are effective, especially in terms of how they can change students' knowledge, views, and behaviors. The focus of this study is students of Junior High School (SLTP) and Senior High School (SLTA) in Jakarta to evaluate how effective the socialization program for drug use prevention is. This research uses a qualitative approach, which involves in-depth interviews and focused group discussions. Data were collected from 20 students, 10 teachers, and 5 facilitators of socialization programs in high schools (SLTP) and high schools in Jakarta. The thematic analysis method is used to analyze the data to find patterns, themes, and perceptions related to program effectiveness. As a result of the socialization program, students understand the dangers of drugs better. Changes in attitudes and behaviors, however, are not always clearly visible. Most students stated an increase in their awareness. However, there is uncertainty about how this knowledge can be applied. The absence of parental support, irrelevant materials, and time constraints are some of the problems found by teachers and facilitators in running the program. The results of the drug prevention socialization program in Jakarta have succeeded in improving students' understanding, but it is difficult to consistently change attitudes and behaviors. Recommendations for improvement include increased parent participation, better socialization materials, and program adjustments to meet student needs.

Peran Sosialisasi dan Edukasi Kewirausahaan dalam Membangun Generasi Milenial Berjiwa Wirausaha: Studi Kasus di Kelurahan Perdagangan I

This research aims to analyze the role of entrepreneurship socialization and education in fostering the entrepreneurial spirit among the millennial generation, with a case study focus in Kelurahan Perdagangan I, Simalungun Regency. Entrepreneurship socialization and education are crucial steps in fostering entrepreneurial awareness and skills, especially for the younger generation who will face economic challenges in the future. This research used a qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with program participants, direct observation in the field, and document analysis related to the KKN program in Kelurahan Perdagangan I. The results showed that the program was successful. The results showed that the entrepreneurship socialization and education program implemented through KKN succeeded in increasing participants' entrepreneurial knowledge, interest, and skills. In particular, SMK students showed increased motivation to start a business after participating in entrepreneurship education. The success of the program was supported by active community involvement and a contextually relevant approach. However, there are some challenges, such as limited access to technology and financial resources, that affect the sustainability of entrepreneurial interest among the millennial generation.

Public Relations Campaign Program Evaluation: A Descriptive Study of the 'Hard Work Free of Worry' Campaign by BPJS Employment

This research discusses the evaluation of the public relations campaign "Kerja Keras Bebas Cemas" launched by BPJS Ketenagakerjaan to raise awareness and participation among the public, particularly informal workers, in the social security program. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the implementation stages, effects, and impacts of the campaign. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method involving in-depth interviews, documentation, and online observation to gather data. The evaluation results indicate that the campaign successfully raised public awareness and participation, as evidenced by a significant increase in participant registrations. The campaign was conducted on a national scale, led by the Deputi Bidang Komunikasi and executed integrally by all BPJS Ketenagakerjaan branch offices through systematic stages. The conclusion of this research shows that the "Kerja Keras Bebas Cemas" campaign effectively achieved its goals of increasing participation and public awareness. However, improvements are needed in message measurement and media selection to enhance effectiveness further.

Pengaruh Pembinaan Disiplin dan Motivasi Kerja terhadap Kepuasan Kerja Karyawan Bagian Rajut CV. Berdikari Textile

The industrial era 4.0 encourages textile and apparel companies to increase efficiency. CV. Berdikari Textile experienced high levels of absenteeism in its knitting department, reflecting low job satisfaction. Building discipline and work motivation is a concern, especially with rules that are often violated, such as prohibitions on smoking and the use of cell phones. Data on employee absenteeism and tardiness indicates problems that need to be addressed. The purpose of this research is to determine the effect of developing discipline and work motivation on the level of job satisfaction of CV Knitting Department employees. Autonomous Fabric. This research uses a quantitative research approach. The common form of data collection is by distributing questionnaires and conducting direct interviews in the field. The data analysis approach uses several tests, including validity tests, reliability tests, classical assumption tests, multiple linear regression tests, and hypothesis tests. Testing was carried out by analyzing the output table produced by the Statistical Package for Social (SPSS) software program, namely version 26. The results of the research showed that disciplinary development partially influenced job satisfaction and work motivation partially influenced job satisfaction. Furthermore, fostering discipline and work motivation simultaneously influence the job satisfaction of CV Knitting Department employees. Berdikari Textile. This shows that the more the company provides good work discipline guidance and the higher the work motivation, the more it can strengthen the job satisfaction of employees in the Knitting Section at CV. Berdikari Textile.

PENERAPAN FUZZY C-Means CLUSTERING sebagai PENDUKUNG SISTEM KEPUTUSAN SELEKSI PENERIMA BANTUAN SOSIAL: Desa Sukau Kayo, Lebong, Bengkulu, Indonesia

Abstract. Frequently the occurrence of discrepancies in selecting eligible candidates for social assistance programmes. Thus, the research aims for creating a support system for making decisions in the selection of prospective recipients of social assistance programmes by applying the Fuzzy C-Means (FCM) method for direct assistance recipients who are eligible or not. The results obtained after testing of system on the 91% questionnaire results are very helpful in taking a decision.

Evaluating the effectiveness of social workers as lead community care coordinators of a large integrated veteran affairs health care system in the Southeast region

ABSTRACT A Veteran Affairs Health Care System (VAHCS) in the Southeast region implemented the Social Workers as Lead Community Care Coordinators (SWLCCC) program to prevent delays in care coordination for veterans admitted to community hospitals. This study examines community hospital care coordinators’ perceptions and satisfaction levels with the SWLCCC program. An explanatory sequential mixed method research design was used. Surveys were analyzed using descriptive analysis and chi-square test of association and interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results showed that care coordination assistance has improved since the veteran-centered social work-led program was implemented.

Peculiarities of the criminalization of smuggling of goods and its importance for filling the state budget

Smuggling of goods is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that has a significant impact on the economic and social situation in the country. The illegal movement of goods across the border not only undermines economic stability, but also poses a threat to national security, contributing to the development of the shadow economy and corruption. In the conditions of globalization and the growing integration of international markets, the issue of combating smuggling becomes especially urgent, because this phenomenon is becoming more and more large-scale and difficult for state control. Criminalization of the smuggling of goods is a key mechanism for countering this negative phenomenon, which involves the establishment of stricter liability for violations of customs rules. It should be noted that the effectiveness of the criminalization of customs offenses depends on a number of factors, including the presence of effective legislation capable of adequately responding to new challenges, the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies, as well as the level of international cooperation in this area, etc. However, given the specifics of the Ukrainian economy and the country’s geopolitical location, the smuggling of goods remains a serious problem that requires a deeper analysis and an effective solution. One of the key aspects of the fight against the smuggling of goods, which became one of the main reasons for its criminalization, is its impact on filling the state budget. Illegal trade in goods deprives the state of significant financial revenues that could be directed to the development of social programs, infrastructure projects and ensuring economic growth. The loss of these resources weakens the country’s economic potential, undermines trust in state institutions, and contributes to growing social tensions. The article examines the impact of smuggling on the state’s economy, emphasizing the negative consequences for filling the state budget. Examples of significant economic losses incurred by the state due to smuggling are considered, as well as the role of customs authorities in combating this phenomenon is highlighted. A set of measures is proposed to reduce the level of smuggling, including changes to legislation, increasing the effectiveness of customs control and strengthening international cooperation.

Peer mentoring and identity transformation in a women’s prison

Purpose This study examined the impact of peer mentoring on identity transformation amongst women in prison, exploring how peer mentoring roles develop non-offender identities, contributing to the desistance process. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative, interpretative approach was adopted. The research was undertaken at a female prison in England and Wales. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with peer mentors, mentees, project workers and prison officers, alongside focus groups. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the findings. Findings Being a peer mentor contributes positively to identity transformation for women in prison, fostering a legitimate, non-offender identity critical to the desistance process. Mentors view their role as a desistance signal through their interactions with prison staff. However, it can lead to role conflict and tension with other women in prison and prison staff. Research limitations/implications Future studies should consider longitudinal approaches to capture the long-term effects of peer mentoring upon desistance. Practical implications Recommendations include leveraging peer mentoring as a rehabilitative intervention, providing ongoing support for mentors and educating prison staff on programme benefits to foster a supportive environment. Social implications Enhancing peer mentoring programmes can improve the well-being of women in prison and support their reintegration into society. Originality/value This study examined identity transformation in female peer mentors in prison through the lens of social identity and group membership. To the author’s knowledge, no previous studies have focused centrally on identity or applied social identity theory to explore the psychological mechanisms behind these transformations.

The Impact of Social Protection Programs on Community Welfare in the Tomini Bay Area

The Impact of Social Protection Programs on Community Welfare in the Tomini Bay Area

Bank Indonesia's CSR: A Model for Social Entrepreneurship Transformation

Context: This research explores how central bank social programs can empower micro-level Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia. The observed economic growth suggests both micro and macro contributions are at play. The study's practical value lies in aiding SMEs enhance their managerial skills, technical and marketing capabilities across local, regional, and international markets. The programs have enhanced human capital development, equipping individuals with the essential skills and knowledge to achieve the SDGs, particularly in developing regions. Purpose: The study aims to describe the social entrepreneurship transformation model implemented by Bank Indonesia (BI) as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts. Methods: Narrative-based qualitative methods and theme analysis were utilized. Data collection was done through in-depth interviews and observations. The subjects are 7 Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) economic actors involved in BI's CSR program. Result: The socio-economic program implemented by BI includes training, technical guidance, and the provision of infrastructure to partner SME groups. This program has led to managerial improvement, market expansion, cost savings, production, and profit for these SME partners. On a macro scale, BI's CSR initiatives involving SMEs have enhanced its public reputation and bolstered its capacity to manage inflation, finance, and digital transformation. These outcomes align with the broader goal of policy coherence and support for the Sustainable Development Goals. Contribution: This study finds that the Indonesian central bank's initiatives contribute to improved economic performance for SMEs. It further supports the theory that state involvement, like social entrepreneurship initiatives driven by the central bank, can bridge the gap between government policies and local entrepreneurial activities.

A mixed method evaluation of knowledge, attitude and practice on dengue fever among Lalitpur Metropolitan City residents: a cross-sectional investigation.

Dengue poses a significant global public health challenge, including in Nepal. Understanding community's knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors concerning dengue fever is imperative to developing effective prevention and control strategies. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices related to dengue fever among residents of Lalitpur Metropolitan City. A descriptive cross-sectional household study was conducted using a mixed-method approach, which included quantitatively studying 636 individuals and conducting 20 qualitative interviews. The data was collected between April 2023 and June 2023. The multistage cluster sampling method was applied for household selection during the quantitative study and a purposive judgmental sampling method was used to identify participants for the qualitative interviews. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire for the quantitative study and an interview guide for the qualitative study. Quantitative data were analysed using logistic regression in STATA version 13, and thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. The findings were validated through triangulation of results from both the qualitative and quantitative study. Regarding knowledge, 64.94% (n = 413/636) reported being informed about dengue fever. In terms of attitude, a substantial majority, 91.51% (n = 582/636), expressed a positive attitudes toward dengue fever, indicating a favorable perception and knowledge of its significance. Concerning practice, 49.84% (n = 317/636) of respondents reported actively engaging in dengue fever prevention measures. The variables gender, previous history of dengue fever and residency were the determinants of dengue fever knowledge. Additionally, gender, residency, and attitude were predictors of preventive practices concerning dengue fever. Our study revealed that while the community demonstrated good knowledge of dengue fever and positive attitudes toward prevention, their preventive practices were inconsistent, indicating a gap between knowledge and action. A positive attitude was linked to better adherence to preventive measures. To address this gap, it is crucial to promote a positive attitude toward dengue prevention through initiatives like education efforts and social mobilization programs. Implementing Social and Behavior Change Communication (SBCC) programs focused on dengue prevention and control measures can help bridge this knowledge-action gap.

A Tale of Two Economies: Diachronic Comparative Analysis of Diverging Paths of Growth and Inequality in the United States and the United Kingdom

This study investigates the correlation between the Gini index and gross domestic product (GDP) in two of the world’s largest capitalist economies: the United States and the United Kingdom. Utilizing econometric methods, including stationarity tests and linear regression, this research work aims to elucidate the relationship between economic inequality and economic growth. The results for the United States reveal a significant positive correlation between GDP and the Gini index, suggesting that economic growth is associated with rising income inequality. In contrast, the United Kingdom shows a much weaker relationship, indicating that other factors, such as redistributive policies and social welfare programs, may mitigate the impact of economic growth on income inequality. These findings highlight the importance of national policies and institutional frameworks in shaping economic outcomes and can be used in policy making. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a comparative analysis of the correlation between GDP and the Gini index in two major capitalist economies, offering fresh empirical insights.

Material hardship and use of social safety net programs among LGBT adults and their families

AbstractLesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people experience higher levels of economic insecurity and poverty compared to non‐LGBT people. Social safety net programs may reduce this disparity, but the uptake of these programs among LGBT adults has rarely been assessed. We conducted a secondary data analysis of the 2018–2020 Well‐Being and Basic Needs Survey to compare differences in material hardship and social safety net program utilization between LGBT and non‐LGBT adults in the United States. LGBT participants were more likely to report lack of an emergency fund, food insecurity, utilities hardship, medical hardship, and multiple material hardships. LGBT adults had higher odds compared to non‐LGBT adults of using SNAP, income‐ or disability‐based insurance, SSI or SSDI, and housing assistance. There were no differences in use of WIC, reduced‐price/free school lunch benefits, or charitable food. Future studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of the social safety net programs for reducing material hardship.

Plasma glucose, HbA1c, insulin and lipid profile in Sudanese type 2 diabetic patients with cardiovascular disease: a case control study

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its consequences are a serious global public health issue. By 2030, the number of people with type 2 diabetes is predicted to reach 439 million. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the plasma levels of glucose, HbA1c, insulin, and lipid profile in Sudanese T2DM patients. Methods: This case control study included 165 Sudanese patients with diabetic type 2 and a cardiovascular condition as cases and 165 diabetic type 2 volunteers without a cardiovascular disorder as controls. The concentrations of plasma glucose, HbA1c, and lipid profile were assessed using a Mindray BS-480 auto-chemistry analyzer, and insulin was analyzed using a Cobase 411 auto analyzer. The collected data were analyzed using statistical tools for social science computer programs (SPSS version 21). Results: According to the findings, (59.4%) of patients between the ages of (50-69). Females made up 50.9%. (38.2%) of patients had an illness duration of between (8-15 years). (41.8%) of individuals did not have hypertension. There was a substantial rise in BMI, FBG, HbA1c, HDL-C, and insulin among diabetics with cardiovascular disease compared to diabetics without cardiovascular disease (p-value = 0.001, 0.000, 0.018, and 0.000). Females had significantly higher blood TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, and BMI than males (p-values = 0.000, 0,001, and 0.000, respectively). There were significant positive correlation between FBS, HBA1c, insulin and duration of disease (r=0.155, p, value=0.005) (r=0.160, p, value=0.004)(r=0.103, p. value=0.061)respectively, while there were significant negative correlation between TC, TG,LDL-C, HDL-C and duration of disease (r=-0.152, p, value= 0.006)(r=-0.023, p, value=0.678)(r=-0.113, p, value= 0.040)(r=-0.145, p, value=0.008)respectively. Conclusion: When comparing diabetics with cardiovascular disease to diabetics without cardiovascular disease, there was a substantial rise in BMI, FBG, HbA1c, HDL-C, and insulin. FBS, HBA1c, insulin, and illness duration all had a strong positive connection.

Improvement of Elderly Welfare Through Food Program

The general background increasing number of elderly in society requires effective welfare programs to meet their specific needs. Specific background in Indonesia, the Food Program of the Ministry of Social Affairs aims to provide essential nutritional support for this demographic group. Knowledge gap although this program has been implemented, there is still a lack of comprehensive analysis regarding its effectiveness and reach, especially in the Sidoarjo District. This study aims to fill this knowledge gap by evaluating the program through descriptive qualitative methods, including observation and interviews. Results findings indicate that the implementers' understanding of the program has improved due to socialization activities. Positive changes have been recorded among beneficiaries, demonstrating the program's potential to improve the welfare of the elderly. The novelty of this study lies in the comprehensive assessment of the components of the Food Program. Implications these findings can serve as a guide for improving and adapting social welfare programs in the future, emphasizing the importance of addressing the welfare of the elderly in community development initiatives. Highlights: Improved understanding of the Food Program through socialization activities. Need to increase the number of eligible elderly beneficiaries. Program meets health standards, indicating successful food provision. Keywords: Program, Food, Social, Effectiveness, Welfare

Social Work Practice in United Arab Emirates (UAE) Schools during and after the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study

Besides their educational mission, public schools ground and support the health and psychological, emotional, and social development of students. The educational system is special because it combines multiple integrated responsibilities and duties that transcend the scope of any other social welfare program. Social workers are crucial constituents of educational systems and are expected to attend to the well-being of students while ensuring the effective performance of the educational system. Given such rigorous demands, this study assesses and compares the actual functions undertaken by social workers in schools in the United Arab Emirates during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. In so doing, it aims to help improve educational systems worldwide. The nuanced results of this study will better elucidate the crucial capabilities of social workers in the dynamic educational system and illuminate the challenges they confront during emergencies.

The Importance of Anesthesia on Human Life

This current study aims to examine the importance of anesthesia for humans. Secondly, what are the types of anesthesia currently used in operations, and what is the role of anesthesia in preserving human life. A questionnaire was prepared via Google Drive and distributed to residents aged 25-55 years, men and women, in the city of Mecca. As for the questionnaire, it was distributed via the social media program (WhatsApp) for the purpose of distancing for fear of the presence of the Corona virus. 380 questionnaires were distributed, and 370 responses were obtained via email to the main researcher. it concluded that requires continuing to work on continuous on advanced anesthesia methods.