Social Capital Theory

Social Capital Theory

  • Definition: Social Capital refers to the networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society, enabling that society to function effectively.

Historical Context

  • 1960s Policies: Equal opportunity and affirmative action policies were challenged for overlooking the influence of social context on success.

    • Assumption: Given the same ability, everyone should achieve if provided the same opportunities.

  • Pierre Bourdieu (1980s): Introduced the term "Social Capital" to explain the influence of social networks on individual behavior.

    • Concept: Being part of a group grants access to shared resources, which impacts individual behavior.

Core Concept

  • Essence of Theory: Behavior is influenced by social connections (who we know) and the nature of those connections (how we know them).

Constructs of Social Capital

  • Networks: Refers to the connections with other individuals.

    • Examples of networks:
    • Families
    • Communities
    • Social organizations
    • Work associates
    • Classmates

  • Relationships: More acquaintances lead to a greater pool of resources and opportunities.

Different Types of Relationships

  1. Bonding Relationships (Strongest)

    • Characteristics: Shared social identity.
    • Examples:
      • Family members
      • Same ethnic origin
      • Religious affiliation
      • Similar socio-economic level

  2. Bridging Relationships (Moderate strength)

    • Characteristics: Connections across different social groups for mutually beneficial outcomes.
    • Examples:
      • Members of a sports team or choir
      • Study groups
      • Neighbors in an apartment building

  3. Linking Relationships (Weakest)

    • Characteristics: Interactions across power or authority gradients in formal institutions.
    • Examples:
      • Teacher – Student
      • Doctor – Patient
      • Employer – Employee
      • Minister – Parishioner

Core Principles

  • Trust: Establishes expectations and fosters relationships.
  • Reciprocity: Generates a sense of obligation among individuals.

Practical Application - Class Activity

  • Instructions:
    1. Reflect on and list your relationships (family, friends, classmates, etc.).
    2. Categorize them into bonding, bridging, and linking relationships.
    3. Select one or two from each category and analyze:
    • How the relationships developed.
    • Contribution to personal health and well-being.

Additional Reading

  • Recommended Article: Shan, H., et al. (2012). "Building social capital as a pathway to success: Community development practices of an early childhood intervention program in Canada." Health Promotion International.

Discussion Questions from the Article

  1. What was the vision of the KidsFirst program?
  2. What were the eligibility criteria for participants?
  3. How did the program foster bonding social capital?
  4. What role do bonding relationships play in child health?
  5. Importance of linking social capital development by the program?
  6. Challenges faced by KidsFirst families in developing bridging social capital?
  7. How did KidsFirst enhance bridging social capital for families?
  8. Contribution of bridging relationships to children's health.