The Built Environment and Social Capital: A Systematic Review

2017 ◽  
Vol 50 (2) ◽  
pp. 119-158 ◽  
Author(s):  
Soumya Mazumdar ◽  
Vincent Learnihan ◽  
Thomas Cochrane ◽  
Rachel Davey
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Social Capital ◽  
Population Density ◽  
Built Environment ◽  
Urban Design ◽  
Social Cohesion ◽  
Significant Relationship ◽  
Environmental Psychology ◽  
Research Synthesis ◽  
Health Geography

A growing literature has indicated a relationship between social capital and certain aspects of the built environment with contributions from various disciplines, including environmental psychology, urban design, and health geography. In this systematic review and research synthesis, we summarize the literature in this domain using existing sociological and design frameworks to ascertain the effect of specific built environment domains on social capital. Our review shows that there is a significant relationship between social capital and the built environment, specifically between social cohesion and access to destinations/walkability. Positive relationships exist between social capital, design, and diversity, whereas the effect of population density on social capital is negative and unclear. We find significant methodological limitations and gaps in the published literature, including the absence of longitudinal studies and the use of a plethora of social capital and built environment measures.

scholarly journals Community infrastructure to boost social relations: a systematic review

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (Supplement_4) ◽  
Author(s):  
A Bagnall ◽  
J South ◽  
K Southby ◽  
S Di Martino ◽  
G Pilkington ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Social Capital ◽  
Social Networks ◽  
Social Relations ◽  
Social Cohesion ◽  
Repeated Measures ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Moderate Evidence ◽  
Community Wellbeing ◽  
Community Infrastructure

Abstract Background ‘Boosting social relations’ in communities has been identified as a priority UK policy-related topic. An earlier scoping review identified evidence gaps in social relations & community infrastructure. We undertook a mixed method systematic review on this topic, which has potential for immediate practical impact. Methods A comprehensive search included 11 databases (1997-2017), grey literature and citation checking. Studies of interventions to improve or make alternative use of community or neighbourhood places, reporting outcomes of social relations, community wellbeing & related concepts were included. Established validity checklists. Qualitative data was synthesised thematically and a narrative synthesis was produced. GRADE and CERQual approaches were used to rate the overall strength of evidence for each outcome. Results 51 included studies, mostly of poor to moderate quality, and mostly qualitative, provided moderate evidence that: Community hubs may promote social cohesion, increase social capital and build trust, widen social networks, increase interaction, and increase knowledge or skills;Changes to neighbourhood design may positively affect sense of belonging and pride in a community;Green and blue space interventions that provide the opportunity to participate in activities or meetings may improve social interactions, increase social networks, bonding and bridging social capital, physical activity and healthy eating, and improve people’s skills and knowledge. There were also common themes relating to facilitators and barriers to successful interventions. Conclusions There is moderate evidence that a range of intervention approaches to community infrastructure can boost social relations and community wellbeing. Future research should prioritise high quality evaluations using repeated measures and validated tools, and robust and credible qualitative evidence. Key messages There is moderate evidence that a range of intervention approaches to community infrastructure can boost social relations and community wellbeing. Community hubs may promote social cohesion, increase social capital and build trust, widen social networks, increase interaction, and increase knowledge or skills.

scholarly journals Differences in depressive symptoms by rurality in Japan: a cross-sectional multilevel study using different aggregation units of municipalities and neighborhoods (JAGES)

2021 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mariko Kanamori ◽  
Masamichi Hanazato ◽  
Daisuke Takagi ◽  
Katsunori Kondo ◽  
Toshiyuki Ojima ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Capital ◽  
Depressive Symptoms ◽  
Population Density ◽  
Social Cohesion ◽  
Civic Participation ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Rural Municipalities ◽  
Neighborhood Level ◽  
Geographical Units

Abstract Background Rurality can reflect many aspects of the community, including community characteristics that may be associated with mental health. In this study, we focused on geographical units to address multiple layers of a rural environment. By evaluating rurality at both the municipality and neighborhood (i.e., a smaller unit within a municipality) levels in Japan, we aimed to elucidate the relationship between depression and rurality. To explore the mechanisms linking rurality and depression, we examined how the association between rurality and depression can be explained by community social capital according to geographical units. Methods We used cross-sectional data from the 2016 wave of the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study involving 144,822 respondents aged 65 years or older residing in 937 neighborhoods across 39 municipalities. The population density quintile for municipality-level rurality and the quintile for the time required to reach densely inhabited districts for neighborhood-level rurality were used. We calculated the prevalence ratios of depressive symptoms by gender using a three-level (individual, neighborhood, and municipality) Poisson regression. Community social capital was assessed using three components: civic participation, social cohesion, and reciprocity. Results The prevalence of depressive symptoms was higher in municipalities with lower population density than those with the highest population density; the ratios were 1.22 (95% confidence intervals: 1.15, 1.30) for men and 1.22 (1.13, 1.31) for women. In contrast, when evaluating rurality at the neighborhood level, the prevalence of depressive symptoms was 0.9 times lower for men in rural areas; no such association was observed for women. In rural municipalities, community civic participation was associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms. In rural neighborhoods, community social cohesion and reciprocity were linked to a lower risk of depressive symptoms. Conclusions The association between rurality and depression varied according to geographical unit. In rural municipalities, the risk of depression may be higher for both men and women, and the presence of an environment conducive to civic participation may contribute to a higher risk of depression, as observed in this study. The risk of depression in men may be lower in rural neighborhoods in Japan, which may be related to high social cohesion and reciprocity.

scholarly journals Análisis de accesibilidad universal de las plazas del centro histórico de Madrid = Universal Accessibility Analysis of Madrid Downtown Squares

2018 ◽  
pp. 03
Author(s):  
Katherine M. Chacón Martínez
Keyword(s):  
Urban Planning ◽  
Built Environment ◽  
Urban Design ◽  
Social Cohesion ◽  
Normative Study ◽  
Technical Parameters ◽  
Universal Accessibility ◽  
Minimum Requirements ◽  
Design Paradigm ◽  
New Challenges

ResumenDurante los últimos 20 años, el desarrollo del paradigma de “diseño urbano inclusivo” ha presentado nuevos retos en la planificación urbana frente a la implementación del componente de accesibilidad universal. Ante ello, Ecuador y España han trabajado en la construcción de  legislaciones específicas, normativas, ordenanzas y herramientas técnicas que han dado paso al establecimiento de parámetros de obligatorio cumplimiento en todos los espacios, más aún en lugares de cohesión social como plazas, calles y parques. Al respecto, la presente investigación se enmarca en el análisis de accesibilidad universal de las plazas del Centro Histórico madrileño a fin de identificar los niveles de esta condición y reconocer si se está cumpliendo con los requisitos mínimos o atendiendo a las diferentes tipologías de discapacidad existentes. Tras realizar un estudio normativo que denota las similitudes en parámetros técnicos entre las legislaciones de Ecuador y España, se recurrió a la “Metodología  Ecuatoriana para la Elaboración de Planes de Accesibilidad Universal” basada en la normativa ISO 21542 de “Accesibilidad al Entorno Construido” para la evaluación de los espacios. Considerando los  resultados obtenidos se establece que existen fallas en el diseño que pueden ser corregidas con el objeto de generar una ciudad más inclusiva.AbstractDuring the last 20 years, the development of the "Inclusive Urban Design" paradigm has presented new challenges in urban planning in regard to the implementation of the universal accessibility component. In response, Ecuador and Spain have worked on the construction of specific legislation, regulations, policies and technical tools that have led to the establishment of mandatory parameters in all spaces, especially in places of social cohesion such as squares, streets and parks. In this regard, this research is framed in the analysis of universal accessibility of the Madrid Downtown Squares in order to identify the levels of this condition and recognize that the fulfillment is based on the minimum requirements or attending the different typologies of the existing disability. After carrying out a normative study that shows the similarities in technical parameters between the legislations of Ecuador and Spain, the "Ecuadorian Methodology for the Elaboration of Universal Accessibility Plans" based on the ISO 21542 standard of "Accessibility to the Built Environment" for the evaluation of the spaces was used. Considering the results of the study, there are flaws in the design which can be improved in order to generate a more inclusivecity.

Urban Design, Public Spaces, and Social Cohesion : Evidence from a Virtual Reality Experiment

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jimena Llopis Abella ◽  
Anna Fruttero ◽  
Emcet O. Tas ◽  
Umar Taj
Keyword(s):  
Virtual Reality ◽  
Urban Design ◽  
Social Cohesion ◽  
Public Spaces

The Missing Dimension in the Built Environment: A Challenge for the 21st Century

1990 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 49-66
Author(s):  
Leo R. Zrudlo
Keyword(s):  
Built Environment ◽  
Urban Design ◽  
21St Century ◽  
Modern Architecture ◽  
Major Focus ◽  
Spiritual Dimension ◽  
Unity In Diversity ◽  
The Creation ◽  
City Design

This article addresses architects, planners, and developers but should also interest any other professionals involved in the creation of the built environment. It begins by stating that the built environment is principally made up of buildings and groupings of buildings. Therefore, architecture and urban design are the major focus of the article. Definitions of architecture are then presented from a variety of authors and architects. An argument is made that there actually is a missing dimension in the built environment illustrated by quotations from architects, architectural theorists, amid critics. It becomes evident that architecture is unable to satisfy the emotional and aesthetic needs of people and also that the profession itself, which admits that modern architecture has created bleak and insensitive environments, is in profound disagreement on how to rectify the situation. Under the heading “Architecture–The Object” arguments for and against different architectural movements or stylistic tendencies are highlighted by quotations from the proponents of tile various styles and theories. A similar approach is taken for cities under the heading “Urban Design–The Juxtaposition of Objects.” The fact that something is missing from architectural and city design is concluded, and examples of a preoccupation for the spiritual aspect of architecture and urban design are used to illustrate this growing concern for a dimension that has been much neglected in tile previous several decades. The notion of “spiritual” is then defined, followed by a list of spiritual qualities. Two important principles, unity in diversity and consultation are discussed before presenting some concluding thoughts on how the designers of the built environment can begin finding ways of infusing their designs with a spiritual dimension.

scholarly journals Motherhood and decision-making among women living with HIV in developed countries: a systematic review with qualitative research synthesis

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ariadna Huertas-Zurriaga ◽  
Patrick A. Palmieri ◽  
Joan E. Edwards ◽  
Sandra K. Cesario ◽  
Sergio Alonso-Fernandez ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Decision Making ◽  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Research Synthesis ◽  
Developed Countries ◽  
Evidence Based ◽  
Reproductive Decision ◽  
Women Living With Hiv ◽  
Reproductive Decision Making ◽  
Living With Hiv

Abstract Background Women living with HIV (WLH) lack evidence-based information about reproductive options while managing pressures from family, clinicians, and communities to give up the idea of having children. As the reproduction intentions of WLH are not well understood, stigmatizing behaviors force them to hide their disease to avoid rejection by their family, partner, and social networks. Compliance with social norms, fear of stigma, and discrimination influence their experience. Current research is individual qualitative studies lacking the synthesis perspective necessary to guide intervention development. The purpose of this study was to synthesize the evidence to explain the reproductive decision-making process for WLH in developed countries. Methods A systematic review with qualitative research synthesis was conducted through searches in 10 electronic databases (CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, Scopus, Social Science Citation Index, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Cuidatge, Cuiden Enfispo, and SciELO). Studies published in journals from 1995 to 2019 with qualitative data about reproductive decision-making among WLH in developed countries were eligible for inclusion. Developed country was operationalized by membership in the OECD for comparative conditions of social wellbeing and economic stability. The CASP and JBI checklists for qualitative research were used to assess study quality and methodological integrity. Thematic analysis and qualitative meta-summary techniques were used for the synthesis. Results Twenty studies from 12 developed countries were included in the synthesis. Findings were organized into 3 meta-themes from 15 themes and 45 subthemes, including: (1) Shattered identity, (2) Barriers, inequities, and misinformation, (3) Coping, resiliency, and support. Reproductive decision-making was perceived as a complex process influenced by facilitators and barriers. The facilitators helped WLH cope with their new situation to become more resilient, while the barriers made their situation more difficult to manage. Conclusion WLH encounter reproductive decision-making with knowledge deficits and limited social support. An integrated approach to holistic care with comprehensive multidisciplinary counseling is needed to support WLH. Clinicians could benefit from professional development to learn how to be authentically present for WLH, including engaging in conversations, demonstrating compassion, and understanding situations. Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines need to be tailored for the family planning and sexual health needs of WLH.

scholarly journals 31.B. Workshop: Public health and urban design: an interdisciplinary approach to promote autism friendly environments

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Risk Factors ◽  
Environmental Factors ◽  
Built Environment ◽  
Urban Design ◽  
Significant Role ◽  
Prevalence Rates ◽  
Environmental Characteristics ◽  
The Relationship

Abstract Autism is a set of heterogeneous neurodevelopmental conditions, characterised by early-onset difficulties in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviour and interests. The worldwide population prevalence is about 1% with an increasing incidence and prevalence rates. Autism affects more male than female individuals, and comorbidity is common (>70% have concurrent conditions). Determinants of these changes in incidence and prevalence rates may also be related to exposure to environmental factors and to modifications in diagnostic concepts and criteria. In spite of the uncertainty in determinants of incidence of autisms, there is evidence that environmental characteristics play a significant role both as autism risk factors and as potential obstacles that influence the capabilities of autonomously and fully “using” everyday spaces. The workshop aims to provide a framework on risk factors of autism and explore the relationship with the built environment, focusing on the quality of the everyday spaces and projecting the effects that it could have in the long term on achieving a desirable level of quality of life. The 11th Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations “Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable” underlines the necessity of designing policies and projects acting to enhance and promote healthy cities and communities by addressing the needs of the most vulnerable groups of inhabitants. Herewith we bring together the discipline of Public Health and Urban Design to promote an interdisciplinary debate on a little explored topic investigating how the approaches adopted during childhood to promote the wellbeing of people with ASD can be related or strengthen by focusing also on built environment design intervention to pursue and reach the same objectives even during adulthood. The workshop will consist of four presentations. The first focuses on giving an overview on current knowledge of intervention for people with autism, presenting also criteria for evidence-based interventions. The second explores the relationship between autism and built environment by providing an exhaustive framework of the available research literature in order to identify a first set of spatial requirements for autism friendly cities. The third examines the impact of built environment on ASD users with the aim of developing a specific evaluation tool for healthcare spaces and best practices formulation according to the specific sensorial hypo- or hyper-activation of people with autism. Finally, the fourth reports the results of a two years Research & Development project called “GAP REDUCE” finalized at developing an Assistive Technology tool to support people with ASD, adult and high-functioning, to plan urban itineraries towards daily destinations. Key messages World's incidence of autism is about 1% with an increasing incidence whose determining rates may also be related to environmental factors and to modifications in diagnostic concepts and criteria. Environmental characteristics play a significant role also as potential obstacles that influence the capabilities of people with autism of autonomously and fully “using” everyday spaces.

scholarly journals Energy efficiency behaviour in the built environment—an assessment of current evaluation practices in the Nordic countries

2021 ◽  
Vol 14 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria Johansson ◽  
Niko Gentile ◽  
Lena Neij
Keyword(s):  
Energy Efficiency ◽  
Built Environment ◽  
Environmental Psychology ◽  
Behavioural Change ◽  
Nordic Countries ◽  
Potential Contribution ◽  
Evaluation Practices ◽  
Evaluation Approach ◽  
Research Perspectives ◽  
Behavioural Aspects

AbstractBehavioural change is expected to play a significant role in the transformation to a more energy efficient built environment. Despite this, current evaluation practice of interventions often overlook behavioural aspects in their ambition of advancing our knowledge on transformative change. Moreover, little attention is paid to how different research perspectives on human behaviour can complement each other in providing a broader scope and deeper understanding of behavioural change. In this study, we acknowledge this gap, and assess the current evaluation practices on behaviour. The focus is on energy efficiency in the built environment in the Nordic countries, and evaluations undertaken by researchers. The assessment shows that the Nordic evaluations apply a variety of disciplinary approaches, but have only to a limited extent addressed a psychological understanding of individual behaviour and behavioural change. We analyse and discuss the potential contribution of environmental psychology in strengthening a cross disciplinary evaluation approach. In all, the results indicate the value of also adding environmental psychology, to provide a stronger cross disciplinary understanding of behavioural change, and the need to coordinate and combine evaluations departing from different disciplinary approaches, to improve understanding of the transformational process.

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