Date of Award
2014
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
M.A. in Sociology
Department
Sociology and Anthropology
First Advisor
John J. Green
Second Advisor
Minjoo Oh
Third Advisor
Kirk Johnson
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
This study was designed to address how a community survives in the context of sustained population loss in an international context. Crooked Island, located in The Bahamas, has experienced a steady population decline over the last several decades. This research focused on how family networks and communication technology are used by Crooked Island residents to develop relationships and build community in the face of population loss from out-migration. The causes and effects of population loss are examined, and then community field theory and the interactional approach are used to understand the processes residents engage in to address place-relevant problems such as demographic changes. Mixed-methods were employed in this study. The study applied available secondary demographic data from The Bahamas Department of Statistics to assess trends in population change. Additionally, the research included field observations and 16 in-depth interviews with people abroad and residing in Crooked Island. The demographic changes caused by out-migration are due to underdeveloped infrastructure and high unemployment. Several significant benefits of community agency and the homecoming (a biennial planned social events) were identified that facilitate keeping the sense of community alive and community attachment strong. Community actors use grassroots efforts to sustain the community identity despite population loss in hopes of supporting an annual island wide homecoming.
Recommended Citation
Deleveaux, Jamiko Vandez, "Maintaining Community On Hardship Island: A Case Study Of Demographic Change And Community Agency" (2014). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 851.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/851