Meta-Analysis of the Relationship between Social Capital and Social Health: Researches in the Period of 2011-2021

Social health is a multi-dimensional concept that includes community health, physical health, and mental health, which is affected by various factors, including social capital. Therefore, the aim of the current research is to meta-analyze the relationship between social capital and social health, in order to estimate the size of the effect of social capital on social health.

The statistical population of the research is the research conducted in the period of 2011-2021 on the subject of social capital and social health. 12 studies that had suitable characteristics to enter the meta-analysis were selected by purposive sampling. In order to analyze the data, the second edition of comprehensive meta-analysis software has been used. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies, the random effects model was used to combine the results and reach the effect size.

The estimated effect size is 0.497 which is in the medium to high confidence range according to Cohen's interpretation system. Due to the heterogeneity of studies, the variables of "unit of analysis, geographical area and time of studies" were analyzed as a moderating variable. Social capital in the north of the country has been more than other parts of the country, also the results showed that social capital has increased its impact on social health over time.

One of the basic preconditions in the social health of individuals in society and, consequently, the all-round growth and development of societies, is to benefit from the basic parameters of social capital.