The value of hybrid evaluation methods for targeted social assistance programs

A case study of China's Dibao

Dados Bibliográficos

ID22420525
AutoresJiajun Lan (0000-0002-3059-1214, School of Economics and Finance Huaqiao University Quanzhou China), Yinghao Pan (0000-0002-4363-9619, National Academy of Development and Strategy Renmin University of China Beijing China, autor correspondente), Jinyang Ren (0009-0004-5424-2483, International School of Business and Finance Sun Yat‐sen University Zhuhai China, autor correspondente), Hao Yang (0000-0003-2138-7307, School of Economics Sichuan University Chengdu China, autor correspondente)
Ano2026
Data de publicação2026-03-14
Peer ReviewedSim
Open AccessSim
TipoARTICLE
PeriódicoContemporary Economic Policy (JOURNAL)
Identificadores do periódicoISSN: 1074-3529 • E-ISSN: 1465-7287
EditoraWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/coep.70026
OpenAlexW7135419730
IdiomaEN
Referências citadas43

Evaluating the targeting of large‐scale social assistance programs is crucial for improving public administration. Traditional approaches, relying solely on quantitative proxy means testing or qualitative community inputs, have limitations in capturing complex socioeconomic realities. This paper argues for employing hybrid methods that integrate quantitative and qualitative data sources to comprehensively assess targeting accuracy. Using China's Dibao program as a case study, we demonstrate that a hybrid approach reduced inclusion errors and enhanced program understanding among beneficiaries and communities. Our findings highlight the importance of collaborative evaluation mechanics that leverage localized knowledge while guarding against elite capture.

Capability approach · Elite · Evaluation methods · Program evaluation · Qualitative research · Social Assistance · Socioeconomic status · Advanced Causal Inference Techniques · Evaluation and Performance Assessment · Qualitative Comparative Analysis Research