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The Spatiotemporal Patterns and Regional Differences in the Resource Allocation of Child Welfare Agencies: Evidence from China

Author

Listed:
  • Xiangyu Fu

    (Chengdu University of Technology)

  • Yibin Ao

    (Chengdu University of Technology)

  • Mingyang Li

    (Chengdu University of Technology)

  • Panyu Peng

    (Chengdu University of Technology)

  • Igor Martek

    (Deakin University)

Abstract

In recent years, the issues of imbalanced development and idle resources in China’s child welfare agencies have become increasingly prominent. This quantitative study establishes a multi-indicator evaluation system for resource allocation in child welfare agencies. Using the spatiotemporal extreme entropy method, it measures the resource allocation levels of child welfare agencies across 31 provinces in China from 2010 to 2021. Incorporating a geographical perspective of the four major regions, and employing methods such as spatial autocorrelation, hotspot analysis, and the Theil index, this study reveals a positive spatial correlation in the allocation of resources for child welfare agencies in China. However, the overall level is low, with a trend of polarization and low-level clustering, and significant regional disparities. This study aims to explore in depth the resource allocation of child welfare agencies across provinces and regions in China, providing insights to promote the coordinated development of resource allocation in these agencies, thereby better safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.

Suggested Citation

  • Xiangyu Fu & Yibin Ao & Mingyang Li & Panyu Peng & Igor Martek, 2025. "The Spatiotemporal Patterns and Regional Differences in the Resource Allocation of Child Welfare Agencies: Evidence from China," Child Indicators Research, Springer;The International Society of Child Indicators (ISCI), vol. 18(4), pages 1771-1793, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:chinre:v:18:y:2025:i:4:d:10.1007_s12187-025-10263-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s12187-025-10263-5
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    References listed on IDEAS

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