Based on the information provided in the chart, it would seem that social factors can be impacted by a societies’ demographic. Factors such as age and sex all impact how people interact with their peers. When the chart asks how individuals relate to their neighbors there seems to be little correlation between sex and the ability to respond to their neighbors. Nearly all the statistics seem to be close, often with 1 to 2% of one another. However there does seem to be a great discrepancy between age groups. According to the chart, it would seem that the younger age groups are significantly less likely to interact with and know their neighbors. They are also less likely to be happy with their community and feel safe within it. Perhaps this can be attributed to the fact that most individuals move several times throughout the course of their life, therefore an older individual may have had time to access what they think is an ideal community and neighbors, settling there in late adulthood. Younger groups may still be working to figure this out about themselves or be in the position to move to their ideal neighborhood. The main variation from this tendency is shown on the heading: I know most of my neighbors. Here the numbers do not reflect any particular trend relating to age.
In relationship to social class and the trends in neighborhoods, the chart indicated that those of higher social class are more likely to know and interact with their neighbors than those in lower classes. They also report feeling more safe. This could possibly be attributed to the fact that those of lower social class may often not have the means to live in “safer” environments, and have to deal with crime and poverty associated with these neighborhoods. Despite minor changes from social class, overall the percentages are fairly close despite the individual’s social class, indicating that class is not a great factor in determining interaction with neighbors (Byford, 2009, p. 260).
. The influence of region is an even less reliable factor. The percentages for region appear to be all over the place with no clear indicators for the most neighbor friendly regions. All the percentages are fairly close together showing that region is not an important factor. South East, and North may lead the pack slightly. In the audio tapes, one speaker states, “Issues of place, space, community, cities, waste, environment and migration are all clearly about the relationship between different places, and about spatial relations between places and how making social life is ultimately a way of making place. Geography, as a discipline, helps us to develop a geographical imagination with which to think creatively about these issues.” (‘Studying identities’, 2009, track 2).
The understanding of society includes the use of demographics, statistics, and psychology to weed out factors and compile the most optimal analysis possible. Other factors can also affect these statistics and this is a very broad survey, to be more accurate the survey should be broken down to analyze more factors within these groups. When assembling the most optimal test, societal profiles are needed. These profiles are a compiled list of values, biases, experiences, and personality traits of the participants (Byford, 2009, p. 260)
.Part 2
The idea that “good fences makes good neighbors” implies that boundaries are essential to creating a harmonious partnership between neighbors. However, while boundaries may be important so is communication, by being able to identify the different ways we interact with each other we are able to better promote Effective Interpersonal Communication. Using these common guidelines can be a stepping stone to a great relationship. One of the most basic principles is to treat others with respect. This means we are better able to use the energy we would spend putting down others or complaining to use in another form. Being understanding with loved ones and respectful of their beliefs is key. Difficulties with others are mere distractions blocking us from viewing the bigger picture.
Relationship building can sometimes be hit with a road block. Feelings and opinions can be different from one another and there are many barriers that influence the flow of communication. One of these barriers is a physical one. These can include a lack of personal proximity to the one you wish to communicate with. Being far away with no means to contact them would be an example. A person that leaves the room and shuts the door may be an example of an immediate physical barrier. Remember that psychical barriers can also produce emotional barriers. Being available is import aspect in a relationship. Stay in contact with the groups you wish to build relationships with by being in their proximity and showing interest in their lives.
Emotional barriers are often motivated by fear. This may be from feeling like you don’t fit in or cultural misunderstandings. Lessons of fear and mistrust learned through past experiences can block the ability to communicate. Even more important than being psychically available is being emotionally available.
Cultural barriers can sometimes impede on a relationship. Different cultures view the world in different ways. Cultural influences impact a person’s way of thought and communication. One has to be accepting of other cultures in order to communicate effectively. Of course different languages are also a barrier. If one does not know the language being spoken of course it is difficult to communicate! Social anxiety, withdrawal, and avoidance can also inhibit the process. One speaker states, “People felt like they needed to be connected in some ways to a rural past but the other important thing to add here is that it wasn’t really just connecting to a past as the past. The past was also being re-made at these times so I think the Whit Walks in some ways were an invented tradition at that kind of time.” (‘Studying identities’, 2009, track 2). Avoidance of people, in this case “fences”, prevents people from connecting with one another and revoking memories of past communal harmony. If fences are implemented it is recommended that community gardens or parks be used as a place to meet with neighbors and connect in a traditional manner.
In conclusion, there may be many barriers faced when building relationships such as communication or cultural misunderstandings. However if one is willing to engage others and become understanding of their life and style of communication relationships can be long lasting.
Developing meaningful relationships within a community is important for community participation and important for emotional and physical well-being. By analyzing the process of building relationships, one can better understand proper communication methods and problem solving techniques. I do not feel that fences (as a metaphor for avoidance) is a helpful in all situations. It is much better to focus time and energy on building a sense of community amongst the neighborhood.
Works Cited:
Byford, J. (2009) ‘Living together, living apart: the social life of the neighborhood’ in Taylor, S., Hinchliffe, S., Clarke, J. and Bromley, S. (eds) Making Social Lives, Milton Keynes, The Open University.
Staples, M., Meegan, J., Jeffries, E. and Bromley, S. (2009) DD101 Introducing the Social Sciences, ‘Learning Companion 2’, Milton Keynes, The Open University.
‘Studying identities’ (2009) Making Social Lives [Audio CD 2], Milton Keynes, The Open University.
