Organizational characteristics of empowering community settings: A multiple case study approach

TLDR

Empowerment is a central construct in community psychology, yet little is known about the characteristics of settings that embody it. The study employs a multiple case‑study design to identify key organizational characteristics of empowering community settings that can guide future research. Researchers conducted in‑depth, multilevel, longitudinal investigations of three settings—a religious fellowship, a mutual‑help organization for individuals with severe mental illness, and an educational program for African American students. The analysis revealed four core features common to all settings: a growth‑oriented belief system, a pervasive and multifunctional opportunity structure, an encompassing peer‑based support system, and inspiring, shared leadership.

Abstract

Although empowerment is often cited as a major guiding construct for community psychology, relatively little is known about the characteristics of empowering community settings. The current paper uses a multiple case study methodology to generate a number of key organizational characteristics of empowering community settings to guide future work in the area. In-depth, multilevel, longitudinal research was conducted on three empowering community settings: a religious fellowship, a mutual help organization for persons with severe mental illness, and an educational program for African American students. The organization features found to characterize all three settings were (a) a belief system that inspires growth, is strengths-based, and is focused beyond the self; (b) an opportunity role structure that is pervasive, highly accessible, and multifunctional; (c) a support system that is encompassing, peer-based, and provides a sense of community; and (d) leadership that is inspiring, talented, shared, and committed to both setting and members. Limitations of the research are discussed, and directions for future research suggested.