Community Experience in Accessing Social Welfare Programs in Urban Areas: Participants' Perspectives on the Effectiveness of Social Services
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Abstract
Social welfare programs in urban areas play a crucial role in supporting marginalized communities, yet their impact on participants' experiences remains insufficiently explored. Previous studies have primarily focused on quantitative outcomes, neglecting the subjective experiences of individuals engaging with these programs. Despite their significance, little is known about the emotional, social, and procedural barriers that shape participants’ perceptions and engagement. Here, we employ a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of individuals participating in urban social welfare programs, aiming to uncover the underlying meanings of these experiences. Using in-depth interviews with program participants, data was analyzed thematically, revealing key insights into the challenges and coping strategies individuals develop within these programs. Findings highlight that emotional and procedural challenges significantly hinder participants' engagement, while social support networks are integral to their success. These insights contribute to a more holistic understanding of the user experience in social welfare programs and suggest that policy improvements must prioritize addressing these challenges. This research opens avenues for future studies on refining the delivery of social welfare programs through a more user-centered perspective.
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