Effects of Urbanization on Traditional Social Networks
Keywords:
Urbanization, Traditional Social Networks, Social Capital, Community Cohesion, PakistanAbstract
Urbanization is a rapidly accelerating global phenomenon, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan. This process profoundly influences traditional social networks, which have historically served as the backbone of social cohesion and community support. This article examines the multifaceted effects of urbanization on traditional social networks within Pakistani urban and peri-urban contexts. Through qualitative and quantitative analyses, the study explores changes in social ties, community interactions, family structures, and support systems. The research reveals that urbanization disrupts traditional kinship and neighborhood networks, while simultaneously fostering new social formations influenced by urban lifestyles and economic imperatives. The implications for social capital, cultural continuity, and mental well-being are discussed, with policy recommendations to mitigate negative impacts and strengthen urban social fabric.
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