Patterns of Place and Community Attachment in an Urban Neighborhood

Cities are the sites of negotiations of differences. They are plural spaces, characterized by a superdiversity that demands the particular attention of social work in terms of solidarities, cohesion and appropriate cross-cultural responses. In communities with high levels of ethnic diversity, community social workers may need to be sensitive to the unique experiences, needs, and cultural practices of different groups. They may also need to work to address issues related to cultural competency and equity within the community. In cities, A strong sense of community and place attachment can foster a sense of belonging and social connection. This can be especially important in cities, where people may not have the same level of personal connections and social support as they would in smaller communities. The study examined residents' perceptions of place and community attachment in an ethnically diverse neighborhood of Jerusalem. The participants, 15 residents of a neighborhood of Jerusalem aged 25-55 were interviewed in semi-structured interviews. The findings reveal that feelings for a place and a community are reflected in three different patterns of attachment: positive, negative/ambivalent, and avoidant. A relationship was found between the pattern of place and community attachment, and the participants' responses to changes in their secure base, as reflected in demographic changes in their neighborhood. The study enhances understanding of the relationship between the theory of interpersonal attachment and the theory of place attachment. It also contributes to understanding how perceptions of community and place are formed in a city, and the key role of community development social workers in an ethnic diverse community.