Social cohesion matters in health

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Public Health
• Health Economics

Background:

• Social cohesion's definition and measurement are debated.
• Existing metrics for social cohesion are limited.
• This study examines social cohesion's impact on individual health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define and measure social cohesion.
• To investigate the relationship between social cohesion and individual health outcomes.
• To inform policy for population health improvement.

Main Methods:

• Multilevel study design using data from 29 high-income countries (World Value Survey, European Value Survey).
• Factor analysis identified five dimensions of social cohesion.
• Cluster analysis created a social cohesion regime typology.
• Multilevel regression models assessed social cohesion's influence on self-rated health.

Main Results:

• Factor analysis revealed five dimensions: social equality, social inclusion, social development, social capital, and social diversity.
• Cluster analysis identified five distinct social cohesion regimes.
• Higher social inclusion, social capital, and social diversity were linked to better self-rated health.

Conclusions:

• Social cohesion dimensions were identified and typologies developed.
• Social cohesion is associated with individual self-rated health, independent of individual characteristics.
• Policies promoting social inclusion, capital, and diversity can enhance population health.