Changes in Households’ Welfare and Consumption Patterns among Jenitri (Elaeocarpus ganitrus) Farmers in Kebumen Regency - Central Java

Abstract

This research aims at analyzing changes on the welfare level and consumption patterns among Jenitri (Elaeocarpus ganitrus) farmers in Pujotirto, Karangsambung, Kebumen regency of Centra Java- Indonesia. Using mix-method, this research combined quantitative method and that of qualitative. Quantitative data was collected by a survey involving 20 respondents which were selected purposively. Qualitative data was collected by a series of in-depth interviews with farmers and traders of jenitri. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively. Interview data was transcripted and analyzed by using domain analysis technique. The research resulted in following conclusions: (1) the cultivation of jenitri has brought about significant changes in farmers’ welfare; (2) the raised welfare level affects the pattern of household’s consumption; (3) prior to cultivating jenitri, farmers’ household tend to be subsistence-oriented; (4) now that they cultivate jenitri, they are driven to meet secondary and tertiary needs, such as motorcycles and jewelries.

Keywords

• consumption patterns, farmers, income source, welfare