Functions of Community: Structures, Dynamics, and Processes

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms, dimensions, power structures, community aspects, and leadership processes discussed in Lesson 3: Functions of Community in Terms of Structures, Dynamics, and Processes.

Community

A group of people in a particular area who are interacting with one another.

Aspects of Community

The structures existing in a community, ranging from the natural environment to the institutions made by man.

Community Power

The capacity of the community to exercise control over activities and seek ways to employ available resources to establish a stronger and more successful community.

Influencer

The person with the most influence, who can lead others to achieve a goal or accomplish a certain task.

Leader

The person who has the responsibility of controlling or taking charge of a particular group.

Leadership

The process and qualities of command and decisiveness with regard to the necessary actions that ensure the welfare of the community.

Social Change

The changes that occur in the social order of a society.

Interrelationship

An individual dimension of community where leaders maintain direct relations with members through familiar relations, affinities or feelings of kinship, and social networks.

Organization (Community Dimension)

An individual dimension of community where individuals belong to an institution or association that serves a particular purpose in the community.

Formal Power Structure

A power dynamic consisting of individuals whose authority is based on formal rules appointed by the government.

Informal Power Structure

A power dynamic consisting of people appointed or recognized because of their ability to lead, direct, or achieve without holding an official leadership title.

Legal Authoritative Decision-Makers

Individuals or bodies whose authority is formally grounded in established rules and institutions.

Population Density

A demographic factor defined as the ratio of people to the space they inhabit.

Heterogeneity

A demographic factor describing the extent to which community members possess diverse characteristics.

Effective Communication

A key leadership quality characterized by open communication between leaders and their constituents.

Development of Social Capital Building

A leadership process focused on developing resilient social capital as a primary contributor to successful community leadership.

Community Engagement

A leadership process centered on encouraging young leaders to participate so they are prepared to take over in the future.

Collaboration

A leadership process where leaders learn to 'build bridges' and establish networks among community leaders across diverse fields.

Summary Assessment of Community Issues

An aspect of community analysis that identifies gaps in social, health care, educational, and other public services.