The Sense of Community Quiz

Major Uses of 'Community'

• McMillan and Chavis identify two main uses of the term 'community':
  • It can refer to a geographical location where people live.
  • It can denote a relational concept highlighting connections and interactions among individuals.

Criteria for a Sense of Community

• The four criteria necessary for an individual to experience a sense of community include:
  • Membership: Feeling part of a group.
  • Influence: The ability to impact the community and be affected by it.
  • Integration and Fulfillment of Needs: The community must meet the individual's needs.
  • Shared Emotional Connection: Strong ties and shared experiences bond individuals.

Membership in the Context of Community

• Membership signifies an individual's affiliation and identification with a community.
• It is essential for creating ties and establishes a sense of belonging.

Attributes of Membership

• Five key attributes define membership:
  • Boundaries: Distinct lines that delineate who belongs to the community.
  • Emotional Safety: A secure environment that fosters trust.
  • Investment: The time and resources individuals are willing to contribute.
  • Shared Identification: A common sense of belonging among members.
  • Mutual Obligation: Responsibility towards one another within the community.

Establishing Boundaries

• Establishing boundaries involves defining the parameters of inclusion and exclusion within a community.
• Boundaries help to create a clear sense of who belongs and who does not.

Geographical vs. Relational Community

• Geographical communities are based on physical locations where people live and interact.
• Relational communities, however, focus on the social connections and relationships among individuals, regardless of physical proximity.

Test your knowledge on the concept of sense of community with this quiz! Learn about the different definitions of 'community' and the criteria that contribute to a sense of belonging and fulfillment within a group.