styrktan

Styrktan is a concept in Swedish sociology and social policy that refers to the strengthening of social relationships and social cohesion within a community. The term was first introduced in the 1960s and has since become a central theme in Swedish social policy debates.

The concept of styrktan is closely related to the idea of social capital, which refers to the networks, norms, and trust within a community that enable cooperation and collective action. Styrktan is often seen as a key factor in achieving social stability and preventing social problems such as crime and poverty.

In Swedish policy discourse, styrktan is often associated with the idea of "modern social welfare" (nya välfärden), which emphasizes the importance of social relationships and social cohesion in achieving social goals. This approach is seen as a departure from the traditional "cradle-to-grave" welfare state, where social services are primarily focused on providing financial support and material assistance.

Instead, the modern social welfare approach in Sweden places a strong emphasis on community-based initiatives and social participation, with the aim of strengthening social relationships and promoting collective action. This includes initiatives such as community development programs, mentoring schemes, and community organizations that promote social cohesion and community engagement.

Research on styrktan has shown that strong social relationships and social cohesion are associated with a range of positive outcomes, including improved physical and mental health, reduced crime and social exclusion, and increased community engagement and participation.