Organizational characteristics of empowering community settings: A multiple case study approach |
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Authors: | Kenneth I Maton Deborah A Salem |
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Institution: | (1) Michigan State University, Michigan, USA;(2) Department of Psychology, University of Maryland Baltimore County, 21228 Catonsville, MD |
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Abstract: | Although empowerment is often cited as a major guiding construct for community psychology, relatively little is known about
the characteristics of empowering community settings. The current paper uses a multiple case study methodology to generate
a number of key organizational characteristics of empowering community settings to guide future work in the area. In-depth,
multilevel, longitudinal research was conducted on three empowering community settings: a religious fellowship, a mutual help
organization for persons with severe mental illness, and an educational program for African American students. The organizational
features found to characterize all three settings were (a) a belief system that inspires growth is strengths-based, and is
focused beyond the self; (b) an opportunity role structure that is pervasive, highly accessible, and multifunctional (c) a
support system that is encompassing, peer-based, and provides a sense of community; and (d) leadership that is inspiring,
talented, shared, and committed to both setting and members. Limitations of the research are discussed, and directions for
future research suggested. |
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Keywords: | empowerment empowering settings organizational characteristics community settings |
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