Health, well-being and social capital

The concept of social capital is examined in this chapter, focusing on the key components of participation, trust and reciprocity, and social networks of bonding, bridging and linking ties. This is set in the context of recent critical debates. The value of social capital in understanding individual and community health and well-being is then explored, taking into account recent qualitative and quantitative research. Finally, the implications of social capital for policy development are considered and recommendations made for the promotion of health-enhancing communities.