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Catalysts of connection. The role of digital information and communication technology in fostering neighbourhood social cohesion: A systematic review of empirical findings

Author

Listed:
  • Jan Ãœblacker

    (University of Applied Science for Housing and Real Estate, Germany)

  • Simon Liebig

    (ILS, Research Institute for Regional and Urban Development, Germany)

  • Hawzheen Hamad

    (University of Applied Science for Housing and Real Estate, Germany)

Abstract

Neighbourhood social cohesion is associated with a range of beneficial outcomes for residents. However, it is commonly hypothesised that neighbourhood relations face potential disruptions from digital information and communication technologies (DICT) as they are assumed to alter traditional community structures previously grounded in physical proximity. We systematically review 52 empirical studies on the relationship between DICT and neighbourhood social cohesion to determine in what ways DICT hinder or promote neighbourhood social cohesion. We found that DICT promote social cohesion by catalysing local social capital, but not for everyone and not in every neighbourhood. We propose the theoretical concept of ‘catalysts of connection’ to explain how technological affordances and online content interact with collective and individual social capital to develop various domains of social cohesion. Based on these results and our theoretical concept, we conclude that DICT exacerbate socio-spatial inequality in cities as neighbourhoods with low social capital are less likely to reap the benefits of the digital age. We provide paths for future investigations on the intersection of urban research and media and communication studies.

Suggested Citation

  • Jan Ãœblacker & Simon Liebig & Hawzheen Hamad, 2024. "Catalysts of connection. The role of digital information and communication technology in fostering neighbourhood social cohesion: A systematic review of empirical findings," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 61(16), pages 3167-3186, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:urbstu:v:61:y:2024:i:16:p:3167-3186
    DOI: 10.1177/00420980241281502
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. George C Galster & Jan Ãœblacker, 2024. "Digitalisation, neighbourhood change and urban social processes: Conceptual framework and introduction to the Special Issue," Urban Studies, Urban Studies Journal Limited, vol. 61(16), pages 3015-3027, December.

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