Community-Level Characteristics Associated With Resilience After Adversity: A Scoping Review of Research in Urban Locales.

Abstract

The objective of this study was to document the current knowledge on characteristics measured at the community level and their relationship to individual or community well-being. The review specifically focuses on studies in urban locations. The main aim was to describe and organize evidence-based community strengths using a multidimensional portfolio approach to resilience. A scoping review using PRISMA-ScR guidelines was performed through searches of English-language articles in PsycINFO and PubMed databases. Inclusion criteria encompassed strengths or deficit factors assessed at the community-level of analysis. Our initial searches produced a pool of 2,246 articles, with 87 meeting full criteria for this review. Community-level variables were often measured as deficits or risk factors. Most studies were conducted in North America. Relationships between community variables and individual well-being showed mixed results for social characteristics but, more consistently, positive associations for strengths-based measures of natural and built environments such as access to green spaces and walkability. Models of resilience, including those focused on individuals, should include environmental characteristics. Findings of the current study suggest foundational concepts for a community resilience portfolio model to complement the more individual-focused models currently in use.