Social Determinants of Social and Emotional Wellbeing

Abstract

This chapter explores current understandings of the social determinants of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander social and emotional wellbeing and its development. We show that the determinants of this wellbeing are multiple, interconnected, and develop and act across the lifecourse from conception to late life. This chapter firstly focuses on the theoretical frameworks linking social factors to health and their applicability in Aboriginal population contexts. It then examines how social and emotional wellbeing develops in individuals, with a specific focus on the broad mechanisms that prompt, facilitate or constrain social and emotional wellbeing in all individuals. The chapter then discusses the social determinants and processes that pose a risk to the development of poor outcomes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as well as the factors that promote or protect positive wellbeing. We highlight that there are a unique set of protective factors contained within Indigenous cultures and communities that serve as sources of strength and resilience.