Governance challenges of China’s major repair fund under structural cognitive imbalance: An empirical study based on social cognitive theory

Abstract

The maintenance and renewal of residential communities are central to urban sustainability. As a key financial mechanism, the Housing Maintenance Fund directly affects the community governance efficiency and the residents’ living quality. The study finds that, in practice, a large proportion of homeowners exhibit systematic misunderstandings regarding the payment schedule, purpose, and management of the Housing Maintenance Fund, thus indicating a widespread knowledge gap. These gaps stem not from individual deficiencies but from a structural mismatch between policy communication and the residents’ cognitive frameworks. Drawing on Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, this research employs a quantitative analysis to examine how interactions between cognitive ability and the information environment shape these disparities. Based on international experience, the study proposes governance strategies such as multi-channel information systems and real-time transparency platforms. By introducing a social cognitive perspective, the study uncovers the underlying mechanisms of fund governance and provides theoretical and practical insights to enhance the accessibility, transparency, and citizen participation in housing policy.

Keywords

knowledge gaps / major repair fund / policy comprehension / social cognitive theory / urban governance / sustainable housing

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