Joseph F. Cabrera

Research Interests

In a broad sense, Dr. Cabrera’s work is a systematic investigation of the concept of social capital and how it can be facilitated in groups, neighborhoods, and communities. To this end he investigates social capital in relation to the built environment, race and ethnic diversity, social network structure, sustainability, and resource inequality. Studies show that social capital provides substantial benefits to those who possess it, and even to those who do not. Thus, understanding how to promote social capital in communities and groups is an important task for those who wish to create more trusting, respectful, supportive, and connected communities. Currently, Dr. Cabrera is studying ethnically diverse neighborhoods in Los Angeles County to better understand how diversity affects the creation of social capital in neighborhoods, and which types of urban and social amenities can be used to facilitate social interaction between ethnically diverse residents. Dr. Cabrera is also working on a project examining the relationship between social network structure and social capital in groups within a college dormitory setting.