Do economic conditions have an impact on social change? Results from Walden University’s 2012 Social Change Impact Report say yes. Two-thirds of adults (65%, on average) across the globe agree that when economic conditions are bad, it’s more important to be involved in social change than when they’re good. Although donating money is most likely where people cut back (37%, on average), adults are more likely to increase their volunteer work or service (29%, on average) and pay it forward when economic conditions are bad.
Walden commissioned the Social Change Impact Report to provide an annual barometer of social change. The 2012 report provides a diverse global perspective from more than 8,900 adults in eight countries on motivations to get involved in social change as well as the roles of individuals, nonprofit organizations, government, and the media in social change. Here are a few of the topline conclusions:
- Global economic conditions impact how people get involved in positive social change.
- Adults around the world perceive bias in their national media on social change issues.
- Nonprofits have an important role in social change.
- Individuals are the driving force behind social change engagement.
- People are more likely to join digital social change conversations than to start them.
To access additional details in the executive summary, full report, and infographics, please visit www.WaldenU.edu/impactreport.