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Keeping the community spirit alive.
M B Adelman1, L R Frey, T J Budz
1Department of Communications, Seattle University, WA.
The Journal of Long Term Care Administration
|July 1, 1994
Summary
A sense of community in facilities isn't accidental; it develops through deliberate administrative actions and communication. Leaders shape resident community through their philosophy and daily practices.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Administration
- Organizational Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Community is often perceived as a spontaneous outcome of shared living spaces.
- This perception overlooks the structured influences on community development within institutional settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To challenge the romanticized notion of emergent community.
- To highlight the critical role of administrative practices in fostering a sense of community among residents.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of administrative philosophies.
- Examination of decision-making processes.
- Content analysis of communication practices.
Main Results:
- Community feeling is actively constructed, not passively received.
- Administrative decisions directly impact resident cohesion.
- Consistent, positive communication is a key driver of community.
Conclusions:
- The development of community within facilities is an intentional process.
- Administrators are pivotal in cultivating a supportive and cohesive resident environment.
- Shifting focus from spontaneous emergence to administrative influence is crucial for effective community building.