Integrating Indigenous Knowledge Into Rural Social Work: A Community-Led Study in Ninghua, Fujian, China

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to examine the integration of indigenous knowledge (IK) into the rapidly developing field of rural social work in China. The study demonstrated the incorporation of indigenous elements such as folkways, power structures, values, norms, traditions, and crafts into the practice through collaboration with the local community. The research employed purposive sampling, which included 4 agency directors, 1 head of a social work organization, 6 social workers, 21 social work students, 16 children and teenagers, 13 villagers, 1 folk writer, 5 local families, 3 teacher lecturers, and 6 government officers. Results showed that the integration process involves the identification, extraction, application, and evaluation of IK are closely linked to the indigenous environment, service recipients, and social workers. Nevertheless, further research is required to operationalize and evaluate the effectiveness of this integration. Findings would be important guidelines for policymakers, education and development experts, and service providers. The conclusions drawn from this study offer valuable insights into the effective integration of Indigenous Knowledge (IK) into social work practice. These insights hold significance for policymakers, education and development experts, as well as service providers not only in China but also in a broader international context.