Sense of Community

Sense of Community

by David W. McMillan

Journal of Community Psychology, Vol. 24, No. 4, 315-325

https://doi.org/10.1002/(SICI)1520-6629(199610)24:4%3C315::AID-JCOP2%3E3.0.CO;2-T

Retrieved from: Z-Library

A sense of community develops when people feel connected to one another, believe they belong, and share a meaningful relationship with their community. It is strengthened through trust, shared experiences, mutual support, and the belief that members matter to one another and to the group as a whole. A strong sense of community helps people feel secure, valued, and motivated to contribute to collective well-being.

Four elements form the foundation of a sense of community. Membership refers to feeling accepted and belonging to a group, supported by shared identity, boundaries, and emotional security. Influence involves the reciprocal relationship between members and the community, in which individuals can affect the group while the group also shapes individual behavior. Integration and fulfillment of needs occur when membership provides benefits, resources, support, and opportunities that meet people’s needs. Shared emotional connection develops through common experiences, meaningful interactions, and memories that strengthen relationships and trust.

These elements reinforce one another. When people feel accepted, they are more likely to participate and develop relationships. When participation allows them to influence decisions and meet shared needs, their attachment to the community grows. Shared experiences and mutual support further strengthen trust and commitment. A sense of community is therefore not simply a feeling of belonging; it also depends on relationships, meaningful participation, and the ability of the community to provide value to its members.

A strong sense of community can support cooperation, collective responsibility, and the ability to address shared problems. However, it requires a balance between individual needs and group interests. Communities should encourage inclusion, provide meaningful opportunities for participation, recognize members’ contributions, and build relationships through shared activities. Overall, a sense of community develops when people experience belonging, mutual influence, fulfillment of needs, and lasting emotional connections, creating a foundation for stronger relationships and collective well-being.

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