The impact of social capital: A case study on the role of social capital in the restoration and recovery of communities after disasters

Social science has recently begun to make significant advancements in the study and understanding of the impact of social capital on the disaster recovery process. Social capital has been found to be an influential factor that significantly enhances or impedes the success of disaster recovery efforts. This study examined the capacity of one neighborhood to rebuild and recover after Hurricane Katrina. Using a case study the researcher investigated factors that facilitated disaster recovery efforts by examining ways in which social capital was developed and leveraged. These findings have implications for public policy, affected communities, and disaster recovery professionals.