Social Welfare
Articles tagged with Social Welfare
UT Arlington connects dementia research to real care
Researchers at UT Arlington are working to improve dementia care through education and support initiatives. The university has received a grant to develop best practices and new developments in care, bridging the gap between research and real-world practice.
Research finds efforts to end child marriage in Malawi leave out local knowledge, culture
Research in Malawi finds that attempts to combat child marriage often neglect local perspectives and cultural norms, leading to challenges in implementing effective solutions. The study proposes an African feminist lens to address the issue, considering relationality, community, and cultural embeddedness to understand the problem.
Software from tech startup Leto helps caseworkers connect clients with community resources
A software system, developed by Purdue University researchers, enables users to create a customized digital binder that can be searched and shared resource referrals. The system improves care coordination among health centers and social service organizations.
World is falling behind on UN’s child mortality Sustainable Development Goal
A new study finds that over a quarter of countries won't reach the UN's 2030 child mortality target on time, with sub-Saharan Africa heavily burdened. The global rate stands at 36.72 deaths per 1,000 live births, projected to meet the target until 2035.
Study: Emotional support lowers incarceration risk for youth in foster care
A recent study published in Social Work Research found that strong social support networks can significantly reduce the likelihood of incarceration among youth in foster care. Emotional support was particularly crucial in this regard, with those who received adequate emotional support being less likely to experience incarceration.
New research-based approach updates welfare states to times of austerity
A new approach for welfare states updates policies to prioritize social investments and effectiveness, combining theoretical contributions and comparative studies. The approach aims to generate long-term benefits for individuals and society, with a focus on targeted solutions and systematic monitoring.
Why March Madness is a perfect storm for betting
A new study found that people are more likely to place bets during weeks with major sporting events when they believe their friends are doing the same. Researchers say early intervention is key to preventing harmful betting patterns, as it can be associated with depression, anxiety, and increased substance use. The study, led by Univer...
New model offers ‘clear path’ to keeping clean water flowing in rural Africa
Researchers developed a dynamic optimization model to help NGOs in rural Africa optimize maintenance schedules, reducing downtime and logistics costs. The model achieved significant reductions in maintenance downtime, ranging from 47-62% in Ethiopia and 53% in Malawi.
People in need of disability benefits are facing new barriers – and government cuts and overhauls are to blame
The federal disability benefits system has become more difficult to navigate due to staffing reductions and administrative changes. Researchers found that 16 million people, including those in severe medical crises or on the edge of homelessness, are facing increased barriers to accessing desperately needed cash assistance. The report ...
“Autoplay got me there”: How YouTube’s algorithm built a following for fascist group Patriotic Alternative
A study by City St George's criminologist Dr Tony Karas found that social media, particularly YouTube, was crucial in the radicalization process for 40 PA activists. The platform's autoplay function nudged them towards more extreme content, often with ethnonationalist views.
British redcoat’s lost memoir reveals harsh realities of life as a disabled veteran
Shadrack Byfield's autobiography offers insight into the suffering and resilience of Britain's homecoming soldiers. The new evidence shows Byfield's tenacious pursuit of veterans' benefits, struggles with pain, poverty, and police, and his determination to design a custom prosthesis after losing his arm.
After more than two years of war, Palestinian children are hungry, denied education and “like the living dead”
A University of Cambridge-led study reveals that more than two years of war in Gaza has left Palestinian children too weak to learn or play, with some living on as little as a bowl of lentils a day. The report warns of a 'lost' generation emerging in Gaza due to the war's educational, physical and psychological impacts.
Health experts release policy roadmap to alleviate the burden of high energy bills
A new policy brief outlines key policy actions to reduce energy insecurity, a growing threat to public health, particularly among vulnerable populations. The report recommends strengthening energy assistance, redesigning utility rates, and creating a more resilient energy system.
International Day/Elimination of Violence against Women - femicide report finds 44 women murdered in Israel since January
The Israeli Femicide Observatory reports a sharp rise in femicide cases across Israel, with 44 women murdered between January and November 18. The report highlights key trends and calls for urgent policy action to address systemic failures in prevention and oversight.
Lighting and acoustics matter for better work environments in ICUs
A study conducted in a Japanese ICU found that healthcare workers experience reduced satisfaction and concentration due to poor lighting and excessive noise. The findings suggest that designing ICUs with improved natural light and mitigating noise can enhance worker satisfaction, productivity, and quality of patient care.
The law turns a “blind eye” to the severe financial consequences of being in an abusive relationship, study warns
A new study by the University of Exeter warns that the current laws turn a 'blind eye' to the long-lasting financial consequences of domestic abuse. The research suggests that the law should be reformed to take into account the financial impacts of abuse when dividing assets, enabling enhanced awards for victim-survivors.
Socially engaged art practices strengthen inclusion and support the resilience of democracy
Socially engaged arts challenge complex problems by facilitating dialogue and collaboration across disciplines. This approach can contribute to societal transformation, strengthening social cohesion and human development while countering polarisation and promoting inclusivity.
Dental shame stops people seeking help for oral health issues, study warns
A new study warns that dental shame can lead to lower self-worth and unfavourable oral health care behaviours, exacerbating existing oral health inequalities. Researchers emphasize the need for non-judgmental environments where patients feel empowered to prioritize their oral health.
Arts programs can help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and other leading causes of deaths, large study finds
A large international study found that arts-based programs can make health messages more memorable and relevant to people's lives, improving health behaviors and cultural relevance of disease prevention programs. The study suggests that arts could be a vital part of the toolkit for promoting health and preventing disease.
How Ukraine keeps society going despite the war
A study from Linköping University reveals that Ukraine's ability to maintain public services during the war can be attributed to the collaboration between citizens and authorities. The researchers highlight the importance of trust within society in creating a robust and credible response to crises like war.
CHEST Is honored with two 2025 Power of Associations Awards
The American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST) has been recognized for its successful initiatives promoting cultural humility and community connections. The First 5 Minutes: Cultural Humility training modules equip healthcare providers with tools to foster respect and empathy in patient interactions.
Foster care study calls for better training, support
A new study by University of Cincinnati researchers finds that foster caregivers across the US need more accessible, ongoing and community-driven training. They want sustainable learning, consistent support and meaningful connection with peers and experts to help them care for vulnerable children.
Women earn 25% less than men in wealthy households, finds study
A new analysis of the gender pay gap in the UK reveals that women in wealthier households earn 25% less than men, while those in poorer households experience a smaller 4% gap. The study highlights the importance of addressing societal penalties for being female and improving job quality to reduce the pay gap.
Bronx Program offering incentives to grocery shop online shows promise in increasing healthy purchases and reducing food insecurity
A new NYU study found that an online grocery shopping program increased household purchases of healthy foods and reduced food insecurity among low-income caregivers. The program provided incentives such as free delivery, text messages, and financial assistance to encourage participation.
Foster care timing may affect children’s school performance
Research follows 8,795 Wisconsin children from birth to third grade, finding early foster care placement linked to improved reading skills and lower absenteeism. However, findings also reveal racial disparities, with limited benefits for white children, emphasizing the need for targeted support and resources.
Parental incomes drop if their child is diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
A study by Uppsala University found that parents of children with type 1 diabetes experience a significant drop in work-related incomes, particularly mothers. The impact is most pronounced for mothers of children diagnosed in preschool years. Long-term effects show that pension-qualifying incomes gradually decrease over time.
Unstable surroundings have lasting effects on youth well-being
New research from the University of Georgia finds that unpredictable environments during childhood can lead to poor behavior and mental instability in children as they grow up. Homes with consistent co-parenting and routines are associated with better youth outcomes, highlighting the importance of predictability for healthy development.
PTSD costs the UK economy £40 billion a year, new research says
A new study by the University of Birmingham found that Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has a significant impact on the UK economy, with average annual costs exceeding £14,781 per person. The total economic burden is estimated to be around £40 billion, which is expected to rise further due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Childhood trauma can harm health for life
Research suggests that childhood trauma can lead to a chain reaction of mental and physical health problems later in life. The study found that children who experienced negative events and unsafe environments in early adolescence were more likely to develop cardiovascular health issues and accelerated aging as young adults.
Can social media predict teen health risks?
A study at UT Arlington will explore how social media interactions shape teen mental health and behavior, capturing daily surveys over six weeks. The research aims to identify short-term and long-term predictors of serious health problems.
NTU Singapore launches new series of courses for all undergraduates to bridge community service and academic learning
NTU Singapore's new Care, Serve, Learn course series aims to nurture socially conscious and civic-minded graduates through meaningful community service and academic credits. The program builds on the university's existing culture of volunteerism and provides students with essential skills like active listening and project management.
Survey: Does someone with alcohol use disorder deserve a new liver?
A comprehensive study found that the public generally supports individuals with black lung disease and genetic kidney disease over those with COVID-19 and alcohol use disorder. However, a lingering stigma surrounding alcohol use disorder led to it being considered least deserving of a transplant.
Helping families financially could reduce child maltreatment
A new study from the University of Georgia found that federal and state policies helping families in economic crises can reduce child abuse and neglect. Report rates of physical abuse dropped by 16%, sexual abuse fell 21%, and neglect decreased by 12% in states with eviction moratoria.
New study: Fewer women want to have children
A new study from Uppsala University found that 75% of women aged 24 wanted to have children, significantly lower than the 91% in 2014. The survey also revealed that 40 women stated they didn't want children due to various reasons, including uncertainty about the future and health concerns.
Older immigrants and immigrants with dementia face similar barriers to accessing social and medical services
A recent study by the University of Eastern Finland reveals that linguistic barriers, lack of digital skills, and cultural differences hinder older immigrants' access to social and medical services. Family members and communities play a crucial role in facilitating access, but NGOs require state support to overcome resource limitations.
Inequality destroys the benefits of positive economic growth for the poor
Research by Prof Nicholas Ngepah reveals that inequality cancels out the benefits of positive economic growth and social grants for people living in poverty, especially during economic downturns. In contrast, poor households experience more poverty reduction when the economy grows positively.
How job ads shape gender and racial segregation in the UK workforce – new study
A new study by Lancaster University reveals that language in job ads can unintentionally reinforce or disrupt labour force gender/racial composition. Workforces with more women tend to use family-friendly policies in ads, while racial minority workers' ads lack impact, the research shows.
School social workers an underutilized resource
US schools are struggling to deploy social workers effectively due to a lack of standardization in roles and implementation. Many districts are unclear about the types of work school social workers can do, leading to inconsistent utilization.
Healthy New Town: Revitalizing neighborhoods in the wake of aging populations
Residents of Senboku New Town in Japan transformed vacant buildings into supportive housing, community restaurants, and group homes to address aging population challenges. The Senboku Hottokenai Network Project showcases the importance of community-led co-creation in creating Healthy New Towns.
Early foster care gave poor women power, 17th-century records reveal
A study by University of Cambridge historian Emily Rhodes found that 17th-century foster carers were entitled to payment from the parish and had significant authority over the authorities. They often accused local authorities of mismanagement and dishonesty, leading to increased funding for their care.
Aversion to inequality drives support for redistribution
Researchers found that people's dislike of both advantageous and disadvantageous inequality influences their support for redistribution policies. Those who strongly dislike both types of inequality are more likely to support policies aimed at reducing income gaps.
Air pollution exposure in infancy may limit economic mobility in adulthood
A new study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that higher exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) during infancy is associated with lower economic earnings in adulthood. The association was strongest in the Midwest and South, where an increase in PM2.5 exposure by one microgram per cubic meter was linked t...
Women at risk of ‘digital overload’ – new research reveals
A new study by Lancaster University highlights that women are more likely than men to experience 'digital overload' and burnout due to their greater use of digital technologies in both work and family lives. The research emphasizes the need for gender-egalitarian work-from-home arrangements and policies to address this issue.
Evaluating diet quality in community café meals for individuals facing food insecurity
Research published in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that meals from community cafés had significantly higher diet quality than meals not eaten at the café, measured by the Healthy Eating Index. This improvement was particularly pronounced for individuals with very low food security. The study suggests that commu...
Grocery shopping habits prove credit worthiness, aiding those without credit history
A new study from the University of Notre Dame shows that repeated trips to the grocery store can be a reliable indicator of creditworthiness. The research found that buying healthier groceries and consistent shopping habits are linked to on-time credit card payments.
Does using your brain more at work help ward off thinking, memory problems?
Research suggests that mentally active employees are less likely to experience cognitive decline and dementia-related issues. The study analyzed various interventions aimed at boosting mental performance, revealing promising results for those looking to reduce the risk of age-related brain decline.
Stalled progress toward eliminating child marriage in India
Child marriage declined nationally in India, but one in five girls and nearly one in six boys remain married as children. The practice has become more prevalent in some states/union territories, with a significant increase observed between 2016 and 2021.
Flexible parental leave among immigrant mothers can promote integration
A new study finds that part-time parental leave fosters better labor market and educational pursuits among newly arrived migrant women in Sweden. The research challenges existing perceptions of parental leave among immigrant mothers, suggesting it can provide a support system during their initial transition period.
Millennials aren’t all worse off than Baby Boomers, but the rich-poor gap is widening
A study of over 12,000 people in the US compares Baby Boomer and Millennial financial outcomes. Millennials with typical middle-class life trajectories accumulated substantially more wealth than their Baby Boomer counterparts, while those with low-skilled service jobs or living with parents struggled financially.
Resume padding: Bad for individuals, good for society?
A new study suggests that resume padding, while bad for individuals, can have a positive effect on society. Researchers found that the potential misrepresentation of education levels can reduce investment in education and lead to lower social welfare distortions.
Researchers use geospatial mapping to assist burn patients
Burn injury survivors face unique challenges, including infection, disfigurement, and disability, which can hinder their reentry into society. Researchers are using geospatial mapping techniques to identify barriers and hotspots for targeted support.
Focus on state as ‘problem parent’ rather than care-experienced mothers – new research
Mothers with a criminal record and care experience face negative judgements and excessive scrutiny due to their 'known' status. The study emphasizes the need for supportive dialogue across disciplinary boundaries to break cycles of stigma and social care involvement, focusing on safe spaces and trust-building for care-experienced mothers.
Study: Rising costs of racial and ethnic health inequities in US surpass $450 billion
A new study published in JAMA estimates the total economic burden of racial and ethnic health inequities in the US to be over $450 billion in 2018. The study also details costs of racial and education-related health inequities for each state, highlighting disparities among different racial and ethnic groups.
Living in an almshouse boosts life expectancy, study finds
A study analyzing 100+ years of residents' records from various English almshouses found that these communities can reduce health and social wellbeing issues for older population members. Residents may live as long as wealthier peers despite socioeconomic disparities.
Harsh discipline increases risk of children developing lasting mental health problems
A study of 7,500 Irish children found that harsh discipline increases the risk of developing lasting mental health problems. Children exposed to 'hostile' parenting at age three were 1.5 times likelier to have high-risk mental health symptoms by age nine.
Study shows SMART Recovery holds potential to help LGBTQ population with alcohol, substance use
A University of Kansas study found that SMART Recovery holds promise in addressing specific concerns of the LGBTQ population, but improvement is still needed. Participants appreciated being part of an LGBTQ-specific group, but faced challenges such as emotion regulation, coping with stigma, and recalling cognitive tools.
What is free food worth? Study estimates the value of food pantry services
A study published in the American Journal of Agricultural Economics estimates that access to food pantries provides a value of $600-$1,000 per client household annually. The collective value of food pantry access among pantry client households may be between $19 billion and $28 billion dollars annually.
How can a welfare state boost population health?
Researchers found a negative correlation between age-standardized death rates and levels of decommodification in 21 OECD countries. Decreased labor market polarization and risk were associated with improved population health, particularly in men.
How minor changes in choice architecture can improve health insurance product choices and costs
Researchers found that providing default alternatives and using ordering and partitioning together can improve consumer choice. This study aims to provide a more efficient way for consumers to make better decisions about healthcare products, ultimately improving health outcomes and the efficiency of the healthcare system.