Changes in neighborhood social capital during COVID 19: links to health, attitudes, and behaviors

Background

Social capital is believed to buffer the adverse consequences of social crises. During the COVID‑19 pandemic, opportunities for social interaction decreased while the need for social support increased, potentially affecting both levels of social capital and its associations with health and behaviors. This study examined changes in neighborhood social capital during the pandemic and its associations with health, pandemic‑related attitudes, and behaviors.

Methods

We conducted a multilevel cross‑sectional study using data from three population‑based surveys across 46 neighborhoods in Umeå, northern Sweden. Neighborhood social capital was assessed at three time points: pre‑pandemic (2006 and spring 2020) and post‑pandemic (2024). Outcomes included self‑rated health, physical and mental health (RAND SF‑36), preventive practices, and attitudes toward future preventive measures. Multilevel linear and logistic regression models were applied, with individuals nested within neighborhoods.

Results

Neighborhood social capital was relatively stable between 2006 and 2020 but showed more pronounced changes between 2020 and 2024. Most neighborhoods experienced increases in social capital during the pandemic, including areas with previously declining trends. A one‑SD increase was linked to lower odds of preventive behaviors, including staying at home (OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.02–2.88), and to less support for future measures, especially testing (OR 0.30, 95% CI 0.10–0.90). An increase in neighborhood social capital was also associated with better physical (β = 10.5; 95% CI 4.96–15.9) and mental health (β = 6.18; 95% CI 0.81–11.5). Associations were more consistent among men than among women.

Conclusions

Neighborhood social capital appears to fluctuate - and often increase - during social crises, suggesting heightened solidarity in response to external threats. Social capital may buffer adverse health impacts of crises, although benefits may be unevenly distributed.

Key messages

• This study shows that neighborhood social capital increased in many areas during COVID‑19 and was associated with better physical and mental health, suggesting a buffering role during social crises.

• The health benefits of neighborhood social capital during the pandemic were stronger among men than women. Efforts to strengthen social capital should consider potential inequalities in its returns.