Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026

The Social Dimension of Stress: Experimental Manipulations of Social Support and Social Identity in the Trier Social Stress Test
Published on: November 19, 2015
Exploring Associations Between Well-Being, Mental Distress, and Five Dimensions of Social Capital in Rural Georgia
Alexis Joanna Smith1, Lauren M Bigger, Robin E McGee
1Author Affiliations: Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences PhD Program, Rollins School of Public Health (Smith); Laney Graduate School (Smith); and Department of Behavioral, Social and Health Education Sciences, Emory Prevention Research Center, Rollins School of Public Health (Bigger, McGee, Hermstad, Haardörfer, and Kegler), Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Background:
Understanding the relationship between social capital, mental health, and well-being is important for advancing health equity in rural communities. We examined 5 individual-level dimensions of social capital and their relationship with well-being and mental distress in rural Georgia.
Methods:
Mail-in population survey data were collected from 6 rural Georgia counties (n = 1374) from December 2018 to May 2019. We conducted bivariate and multivariable analyses, controlling for county.
Results:
Social capital was significantly associated with improved well-being and inversely associated with mental distress.
Conclusion:
Findings support research that strengthens social capital through trust-building, strengthening neighborhood ties, and offering civic engagement opportunities.
Related Concept Videos
Social Relationships and Well-Being
Impact of Social Context on Individuals
Traits, Mood, and Subjective Wellbeing
Neuroticism and Emotional...
Importance of Need for Affiliation
Sources of Self-Esteem III: Social Comparison
Relationship Formation
