The Rewards of Belonging: Community as a Social Determinant of Health

Abstract

Through evidence-based research, and the use of personal stories, the author proposes that experiencing a sense of community and belonging is a basic human need. The argument presented suggests that community as a social determinant of health has tremendous effects on the health of those who are part of one such environment. It also discusses ways in which communities function, and how members of a community can benefit from each other and the community itself.