The value of hybrid evaluation methods for targeted social assistance programs

A case study of China's Dibao

Datos 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 de correspondencia), Jinyang Ren (0009-0004-5424-2483, International School of Business and Finance Sun Yat‐sen University Zhuhai China, autor de correspondencia), Hao Yang (0000-0003-2138-7307, School of Economics Sichuan University Chengdu China, autor de correspondencia)
Año2026
Fecha de publicación2026-03-14
Peer ReviewedSí
Open AccessSí
TipoARTICLE
RevistaContemporary Economic Policy (JOURNAL)
Identificadores de la revistaISSN: 1074-3529 • E-ISSN: 1465-7287
EditorialWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1111/coep.70026
OpenAlexW7135419730
IdiomaEN
Referencias 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