The role of social capital in participatory arts for wellbeing: findings from a qualitative systematic review

ABSTRACT

Background

Social capital is often cited as shaping impacts of participatory arts, although the concept has not been systematically mapped in arts, health and wellbeing contexts. In wider health inequalities research, complex, differential, and sometimes negative impacts of social capital have been recognised.

Methods

This paper maps of social capital concepts in qualitative research as part of the UK What Works for Wellbeing evidence review programme on culture, sport and wellbeing.

Results

Studies often cite positive impacts of bonding and, to a lesser extent, bridging social capital. However, reported challenges suggest the need for a critical approach. Forms of linking social capital, such as reframing and political engagement to address social divisions, are less often cited but may be important in participatory arts and wellbeing.

Conclusions

Future research should further specify dimensions of social capital as well as their nuanced effects in arts, and wellbeing contexts.

KEYWORDS:

• Social capital
• sociology
• qualitative data analysis
• public health
• music

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by Economic & Social Research Council grant number ES/N003721/1, as part of the evidence review programme for the UK What Works Centre for Wellbeing.