Supportive communities and a sense of belonging in rural and non-rural communities in Canada

Abstract

This analysis examines where people turn in times of change, and factors that affect one's sense of belonging to a community. Cycle 22 of the Canadian General Social Survey provides data on rural and non-rural areas; the New Rural Economy Project has detailed information on twenty rural communities. Many of the changes participants experienced in the last year had neutral or positive effects. Family and friends are the principal source of support in both rural and non-rural communities. (Bureaucratic and informal associative networks are important for fewer.) Like rural participants, non-rural participants also report they belong to their community, a feeling that is stronger in rural communities which are open to diversity, have many, effective leaders, and encourage community participation. Keywords: youth, community attachment, rural, social networks, social support