Mapping Community Capitals: A Potential Tool for Social Work

Authors

  • Kyle A. Pitzer Washington University in St. Louis
  • Calvin L. Streeter The University of Texas at Austin

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18060/17470

Keywords:

community development, community capitals framework, community practice, concept mapping, social work practice

Abstract

Concept mapping can be a useful tool in social work practice at all levels. Mapping can help clarify and increase comprehension of abstract concepts, such as community capitals or assets. This paper describes community capitals, presents a simple method for mapping community assets conceptually, and demonstrates this method through two case examples. The cases detail activities of two organizations involved in work with communities. The development and leveraging of capitals is illustrated in both instances. Following the case examples, the significance and value of mapping in social work and suggestions for future research are discussed based on the mapping exercise.

Author Biographies

Kyle A. Pitzer, Washington University in St. Louis

George Warren Brown School of Social Work Doctoral Student

Calvin L. Streeter, The University of Texas at Austin

School of Social Work Professor

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Published

2016-02-08

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 2 (2015): Fall 2015

Section

Articles