PHC 3

Community Overview

  • Definition of Community: A community is a social group defined by geographical boundaries and/or common values and interests. Members interact and know each other, functioning within a specific structure that creates norms, values, and social institutions.

Characteristics of a Community

  • Geographical Boundaries:

    • Defined boundaries with a clear beginning and end.

    • Small communities (hamlets, villages) have distinct boundaries; large communities (towns, cities) have more indistinct boundaries.

  • Composition:

    • Composed of individuals who live together within defined limits.

    • Members share common psychological characteristics such as language, lifestyle, customs, and traditions.

    • There is a shared set of interests, values, moral norms, and codes.

  • Interaction:

    • Free communication and interaction among members.

  • Social Structure:

    • Organized social systems that facilitate various functions, including housing and food.

Functions of a Community

  • Housing and Shelter:

    • Provides space for residing, socializing, and recreation.

  • Livelihood Facilities:

    • Offers means and facilities for work and livelihood opportunities.

  • Socialization and Education:

    • Facilitates the socialization and educational development of its members.

  • Safety and Security:

    • Ensures the welfare of members through enforcement of norms and laws.

  • Participation and Communication:

    • Encourages opportunities for community engagement and interaction.

Components of a Community

A. Core People

  • Represents the demographic makeup, values, beliefs, and history.

  • Group size can vary, encompassing individuals bound by community consciousness.

B. Community Environment

  • Encompasses living and non-living elements influencing daily life.

  • Includes physical, chemical, and natural forces that shape lifestyles.

C. Economic System

  • Communities consist of individuals seeking survival, leading to daily transactions and economic interactions.

D. Health

  • Reflects the capacity of individuals to adapt and self-manage in various environments.

E. Culture

  • Features shared norms, religion, values, or identities among community members.

F. Quality of Life

  • Represents overall well-being, considering physical health, family, education, and the environment.

Types of Community

1. Formal Communities

  • Engage in joint activities, share information, and maintain standings amongst each other.

    • Examples: Ecovillages, co-housing, co-ops, religious communities.

2. Informal Communities

  • Comprised of personal relationships, social networks, and common interests.

    • Examples: Academic communities, recreational communities, retirement communities.

3. Urban Communities

  • Characteristics:

    • Large in land area and population, high engagement in diverse occupations.

    • Advanced in science and technology with numerous establishments.

    • Issues of pollution, crime, and social impersonality are prevalent.

    • Class extremes and limited personal relationships.

4. Rural Communities

  • Characteristics:

    • Focus on producing food for sustenance.

    • Greater personal interactions and long-term relationships.

    • Shared values and beliefs; informal relationships predominately.

    • Generally peaceful with fewer institutions and goods.