Published In

Encyclopedia of Social Work

Document Type

Pre-Print

Publication Date

11-29-2021

Subjects

Gentrification, Social justice, Discrimination in housing

Abstract

Gentrification can be understood as the process through which geographical areas become increasingly exclusive, which disproportionately harms people living in poverty and people of color, as well as the elderly, families, and youth. As such, this article argues that macro social work practitioners should view gentrification as a key concern. Thus, to help guide macro interventions, the article begins by first defining gentrification and describing ways to measure it, while emphasizing its difference from revitalization. Second, the article explores causes of gentrification, including its relationship to systemic racism. Third, the article explores the consequences of gentrification on individuals’ and communities’ well-being, considering how these consequences can influence macro practice. Finally, the article provides insight into ways that macro practitioners can strategically with others to prevent gentrification, mitigate its harms, and proactively support community well-being in areas threatened by gentrification.

Rights

© Oxford University Press

This is the author's manuscript submitted to Oxford Research Encyclopedias; the final version is available from the publisher:
https://doi.org/10.1093/acrefore/9780199975839.013.1413

PSU affiliates may login to access the article:
https://doi-org.proxy.lib.pdx.edu/10.1093/acrefore/9780199975839.013.1413

DOI

10.1093/acrefore/9780199975839.013.1413

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/36858

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