Autor/in: Dirksmeier, Peter, Göb, Angelina
Abstract: Communicating is a meaningful practice for building neighbourhood cohesion by fostering a
sense of connection, mutual support and belonging among residents of a geographically defined
neighbourhood. In our paper, we highlight the role of regular contact and conversations with
neighbours for generating neighbourhood cohesion. Following a mixed-methods approach, we
combine qualitative instruments from two case studies focusing on neighbourhoods in Hanover
with quantitative data from a panel survey conducted in Hanover and Magdeburg, Germany. The
residents’ statements clearly show that talking to each other influences their socio-spatial
orientation towards the neighbourhood as a point of reference, thus promoting attitudes and
practices to strengthen neighbourhood cohesion. Based on these results, the causal model confirms
the effect of conversations on neighbourhood cohesion, which is mediated by the factor of
trust. Combining the two types of data helps to understand and explain why neighbourhoods are
relevant for peaceful coexistence: they enable low-threshold interaction and thus the experience
of belonging and integration. It remains open whether and to what extent neighbourhood
cohesion can be scaled up, which requires comparisons with other cities and city types as well as
different neighbourhoods to identify regional and international differences.
Erscheinungsjahr: 2027
Titel der Zeitschrift: Journal of Urban Management
Volume (Issue No.): 16
Artikel Nr.: 100554
doi: doi: 10.1016/j.jum.2026.100554
Download PDF

FGZ-Dataset:
RISC regional panel study 2021 [FGZ Regionalpanel 2021], RegPan2021 (wave 1)
RISC Regional Panel 2021-2023 – Wave 1-2 (FGZ Regionalpanel 2021-2023 – Welle 1-2), RISC RegPan W1-2 2021-23