Person-place relationships, social capital, and health outcomes at a nonprofit community wellness center

Abstract

Park-based social capital, with its potential contribution to health outcomes, is the subject of a growing body of research. However, less is known about social capital in the context of community recreation and wellness centers, and other indoor recreation facilities. While past research has identified factors contributing to relationship building, and identified outcomes of social capital in this context, much remains unknown. In this study we examined: the relationship between center-based place attachment and center-based social capital; the relationship between center-based social capital and self-reported health; and the relationship between place attachment and self-reported health. Results indicated place identity influenced social capital, and was positively related to self-reported health, emphasizing the importance of fostering emotional attachments to recreational settings as a means of health promotion. The association between center-based social capital and self-reported health was mixed, as some elements were positively related to health outcomes, while others were negatively related.

Keywords:

• Community center
• health and well-being
• place attachment
• social capital
• social environment