Climate Change and Human Health Literature Portal
PURPOSE: Extreme weather events are increasing with climate change. The physical and mental health of people served by social workers may be especially at risk from these hazards. This exploratory study examines if specific types of human, financial, physical, and social capital are associated with health impacts from excessive summer heat and extreme winter weather. METHOD: Data from resident surveys (N = 424) in low- and moderate-income areas of a Southeastern US city are analyzed with descriptive statistics and logistic regression. RESULTS: Key findings are that health status and social cohesion are negatively associated with health impacts of summer heat and winter extremes. CONCLUSION: Further study is needed of how specific types of capital may help people cope with a changing climate. Social capital may be a particularly relevant area for social work to address within the pressing issue of climate, weather, and the health of vulnerable groups.
Resource Description
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Extreme Weather-Related Event or Disaster, Temperature
- Extreme Weather-Related Event or Disaster, Temperature: Cold, Heat
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United States
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Mental Health and Well-Being, Morbidity/Mortality
- Mental Health and Well-Being, Morbidity/Mortality: General Mental Health and Well-Being
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Research Article
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Communication, Sociodemographic Vulnerability, Vulnerable Population
- Communication, Sociodemographic Vulnerability, Vulnerable Population: General Public/Unspecified
- Communication, Sociodemographic Vulnerability, Vulnerable Population: General Vulnerable Populations