This book explores social factors that influence well-being, as well as the relationship between these factors. It examines individual areas of social policy from the perspective of children¿s well-being, gender equity, and the impact of crime and social capital. The book discusses the relationships of well-being with the provision of public services, with developing a sense of community, and dimensions of happiness in nations. Bringing together perspectives from around the globe, the book provides both theoretical and applied explorations. It links the idea of influencing social factors and outcomes to community well-being, thus adding a new perspective. In doing so, it reflects the new and exciting research that is being conducted at the intersection between social factors, policy, impacts, and community well-being.

Addresses the topical and evolving research area of community well-being

Preface.- Chapter 1. Conceptualizing a Community Well-Being and Theory Construct; Heekyung Sung and Rhonda Phillips.- Chapter 2. An Exploratory Study of the Relationship between Community Well-being, Individual Well-being, and Local Public Services; Seung Jong Lee and Yunji Kim.- Chapter 3. Does Sense of Community Really Matter in Community Wellbeing?; Youngwha Kee and Chaebong Nam.- Chapter 4. The Development and Production of Local, National, and international State of Children's Wellbeing Report Cards; Geoff Woolcock and Jeanette Pope.- Chapter 5. An Exploration of the Relationship Between Gender Equity and Community Wellbeing; Sharan Merriam.- Chapter 6. Crime and Community Wellbeing: The Role of Social Capital and Collective Efficacy in Increasing Safety; David Sloane.- Chapter 7. Relationships between Social Policy Factors and National Competitiveness and Happiness; Young-Chool Choi and Ji-Hyun Jang.