Predictors of Life Aspirations' Fulfillment as an effort of Social Workers to Improve the Living Standards of Rural Community

Abstract

With prevalent poverty, poor health conditions, limited economic possibilities, and limited access to education, rural people are deprived of most of life's fundamental essentials. Several social organizations have recognized these potential problems and are attempting to improve rural communities. Considering the importance of social organizations in enhancing the living standards of rural communities, the current study investigates the role of social workers, i.e., rural familiarity and interest, social connections, and place integration, in enhancing community participation and satisfaction, thereby enabling individuals to realize their life goals. A quantitative research approach was utilized to collect data from 480 socially low-income families in rural communities in the Indonesian provinces of South Kalimantan and Banjarmasin. By statistically evaluating the obtained data, it was shown that social workers' traits were vital in providing rural communities with employment prospects by beginning various programs to encourage their involvement and contentment with such projects and activities. Their higher degree of happiness and participation led to realizing their life goals. This study contributes to the existing sociology literature by giving empirical evidence about the role of social workers in enhancing the fulfillment of life aspirations in rural communities, resulting in higher living standards.