EXTERNAL CAPABILITY 10: SOCIAL NETWORKS AND SOCIAL CAPITAL FOR ACHIEVING POSITIVE HEALTH OUTCOMES

Connecting to others for health

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Overview

Agency 1. Emotional or instrumental support from friends and family

Agency 2. Existence of available networks of social groups

Agency 3. Extent to which social networks may negatively impact health

What is it?

As an external capability, social networks and social capital for achieving positive health outcomes refers to the existence of available networks of social groups, emotional and instrumental support from friends and family, as well as the extent to which social networks may positively impact health. This capability enables individuals, communities, and societies to draw on social connections as a resource to achieve health.

Why is it important?

Social networks and social capital are important for achieving positive health outcomes because we, as humans, are social beings living in social communities. We thrive when we are connected to and give and receive mutual support with our friends and family.

What does it look like?

A strong external capability of social networks and social capital for achieving health outcomes means that individuals, communities, and societies are well connected within- and across-groups; that is, there are people to turn to for help. People also support each other, with encouragement as well as tangible assistance (e.g. transportation, live-in care, finances). Social networks also have a positive influence on health through positive health norms.

How do WE do it?

We develop social networks and social capital through time and space for individuals to form and sustain relationships and communities. This could look like funding community sports, arts, and service organizations, or creating holidays to ensure workers and parents have time off to spend with family and friends.

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