Although there has been considerable research on the influence of communities on health, relatively little is known about which aspects of community are relevant to individuals and their health. Studies of social contexts have generally used census data and, even coded down to the level of block group, this geographic area may not match the communities that individuals define as meaningful in their lives. Our exploratory research, based on focus groups in nine socio-economically diverse Oakland, California neighborhoods, examined ways in which African-American and white residents experience the impact of both neighborhood and non-geographic communities on their health. This presentation will address two research questions: how do people define their neighborhood as well as other non-geographic communities, such as work or religious community; and, how do individuals think about the role of community in their lives, and its effect on their health. We developed a conceptual model to explain our findings that can be used guide further research. Focus group participants viewed neighborhood in multiple ways, but most often as a small geographic area, such as one's block, where one feels safe to walk or where one shops. Census data are at best a crude proxy for this kind of socially constructed definition of neighborhood. Participants discussed numerous mechanisms through which both the social and physical environments affect their health, notably through relieving, creating, or exacerbating stress. Findings from this qualitative research will be used to develop measures that can be systematically tested in a larger sample.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participants in the session will be able to: 1. List various ways residents of different types of neighborhoods define their "neighborhood" as well as other non-geographic communities such as work or religious community. 2. Assess fit between census data and individuals' everyday experience of neighborhood. 3. List mechanisms through which social and physical environments affect health. 4. Utilize conceptual model to guide future thinking and research on communities and health
Keywords: Community Research, Social Inequalities
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.