Social Capital Survey - Feb. 2025
Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Your responses are anonymous. The following research will help me continue to develop my PhD areas of focus. I'm grateful for your input and perspectives. - Josh VanderPlate
1. Social Capital is described as personal connectedness and reciprocal social relationships which produce a sense of belonging and civic virtue. In other words, sharing life within community produces individual human thriving and value. Are you currently experiencing this type of engaged social (face to face) interaction?
Yes, I have meaningful reciprocal social relationships (outside my family).
Yes, but I'm uncertain if it's producing social capital.
No, but I've been searching for greater connectedness.
No, and I'm not sure it would make a difference for me.
Other
2. Social Capital is considered to have experienced continuous decline over the past 50 years. Do you agree or disagree that we are CURRENTLY experiencing less meaningful social engagement than previous generations?
Agree, we are less meaningfully connected with our neighbors.
Agree, but I think digital social networking has replaced it.
Disagree, we have the same or similar meaningful relationships with neighbors.
Disagree, and I think digital social networking is to blame.
Other
3. There are many types of social groups that once played key roles in connectedness within communities. Which of the following are groups you are regularly involved with and believe contribute to human thriving? (Select All)
Local Church
School (Parent Groups, Boosters etc.)
Lions Club / Rotary / Sertoma etc.
Special Interest Groups (Gardening, Pool, etc.)
AA / Celebrate Recovery / Support Groups
Sports Teams (active participant)
Volunteer Fire Co. or Emergency Response
Other
4. In YOUR OWN observations, does your regional community culture encourage building meaningful relationships with neighbors?
Yes
No
Unsure
5. What elements would you suggest may contribute to declining social capital? (Select all that may apply)
Online Social Networking
Divisive Politics
Individualism
Self-centered Postures
Change in socioeconomics
Less Time Available For Engagement
Poor Vision from Organizations (why get involved?)
Fears Related To Safety / Security
6. How likely are you to make an effort to build new relationships with your neighbors in the coming year?
Absolutely - I'm already working on it.
It's something that will take effort, but I'm open to it.
I don't think it's likely - I have several objections.
Not Possible - too many walls exist.
7. How old are you?
18 - 25
25 - 45
45 - 60
60 and above
8. Gender?
Please Select
Male
Female
9. Any Additional Comments Related To Social Capital?
10. Any Questions You Think Would Help My Research?
Submit
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