Social connectedness is positively correlated with a wide range of physical and mental health outcomes. For example, individuals who feel a strong sense of social connectedness are statistically less likely to experience adverse mental health issues and are statistically less likely to commit violent crimes or spend time in prison. However, young people in disadvantaged areas often feel socially isolated and socially disconnected. This study aims to ascertain the lived experience of young people in selected disadvantaged areas of Dublin City with respect to how they connect socially and how they believe social connectedness can be encouraged.
A participatory action methodology will be employed. Working directly with young people, the student will co-design a research study to determine what social connectedness means to them and how they engage socially (e.g. who they feel connected to, how/if they use technology such as mobile phones or online platforms to connect socially, how they use public/social spaces such as parks, green areas, community resources).
Arising from the study, recommendations can be made with respect to encouraging social connectedness and sense of community, resource allocation, funding and use/design of public spaces.
This project would be suitable for a graduate of social sciences, including geography and economics. A 2.1 minimum is required and candidates must have both strong quantitative and qualitative research skills.
Funding is not available for this study. Students are required to pay relevant fees.
For further information please contact Dr Aiden Carthy at aiden.carthy@tudublin.ie
If you are interested in submitting an application for this project, please complete an Expression of Interest.