Living in deprived, close-knit neighbourhood communities: The nuances of social support and social control and their effects on health and wellbeing
Abstract
This qualitative study explores the dynamics of close-knit, Mediterranean, Maltese deprived neighbourhoods in relation to the health and wellbeing of mothers by considering the role of social processes, social capital and... [ view full abstract ]
This qualitative study explores the dynamics of close-knit, Mediterranean, Maltese deprived neighbourhoods in relation to the health and wellbeing of mothers by considering the role of social processes, social capital and social networks. Through theories from diverse disciplines including Putman (2000), Bourdieu (1984), Portes (1998), Berkman et al., (2000), Kawachi and Berkman (2001), the complexities of social capital are addressed. Results have shown a match with the theory of ‘normative’ social capital, where attributes of social organisation such as trust and reciprocity, cohesion and solidarity have been linked. In other instances narratives of social capital have also matched with the ‘resource’ theory, where social capital influences varying modes of access to socially important resources.
Through these mechanisms, it is universally expected that the health of the respondents improves. However, this research shows other dimensions. Few theories related to social capital comment on the fact that a neighbourhood even though socially supportive and engaging, can prove to have a negative social influence on its inhabitants. Indeed, several respondents move out of this neighbourhood due to excessive familiarity and intrusion. In the new neighbourhood social context, these respondents find that the sense of anonymity, rather than being detrimental as theoretically explained, proves to be beneficial for their wellbeing.
Authors
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bernadine satariano
(University of Durham)
Topic Area
IV. Behaviors 4.1 Mobilities and health 4.2 Spatial analysis of substance abuse and treatm
Session
SPH-UH-01G » Spatializing Urban Health (13:20 - Friday, 1st April, TBA)
Paper
Living_in_deprived_close_knit_neighbourhood_community__Bernadine_Satariano.docx
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