Understanding Community Concepts

Definition of Community

• Defined by two characteristics: location and social identification.
• Location is considered more precise than "place" and refers to human settlements like cities, towns, and villages.
• Social identity theory explores how individuals identify as either individuals or group members.
• A community consists of people sharing common attributes or strong connections.

Basics of Community

• Self Help: Individuals seek personal development independently.
• Community Ownership: Commitment to community is linked to an individual’s involvement in its operational structures.
• Community Participation: Individuals contribute through volunteerism in various initiatives.
• Inclusions: Active participation includes conceptualizing, planning, and reviewing community development projects.
• Access and Equity: Aims for fair resource distribution, equal opportunities, and increased public participation.

Types of Community

• Rural: Characterized by limited population size in countryside areas.
• Urban: Larger populations, often overcrowded, in city areas.
• Suburban: Transitional areas between rural and urban, with moderate population sizes.

Types of Community-Organizational

• Unaffiliated Community: Comprises individuals with no close associations or community ties.
• Federated Community: Linked by common purpose, balancing individuality and unity.
• Affiliated Community: Shares interests or ties with specific organizations, like military communities.

Community Dynamics

• Refers to evolution and change influenced by factors like resource quality and competition.
• Communities can face species irruptions and local extinctions due to environmental changes.

Key Factors of Community Dynamics

• Facilitate a compelling purpose to attract members.
• Adapt to changing member needs, ensuring relevance.
• Encourage participation through strategies to engage both new and senior members.
• Delegate tasks to passionate community leaders to enhance management.
• Maintain tight moderation to protect against bullying and ensure a positive environment.
• Recognize achievements and celebrate community successes.

Community Actions

• Involve citizens in planning and delivering local services; emphasize collective mobilization and policy changes.
• Focus on specific issues like sexual rights and aim to engage communities beyond political frameworks.

Purpose of Community Actions

• Places communities at the center of local service design and delivery.
• Objectives:
  • Build community capacity through shared knowledge and skills.
  • Enhance community resilience for self-support.
  • Focus on prevention via early access and cross-sector partnerships.
  • Support wealth creation through employment initiatives and community enterprises.

This quiz explores the definition of community by examining its two key characteristics: location and social identification. It delves into geographical aspects as well as theories of social identity, providing insights into how individuals perceive community in both individual and group contexts.