Disengagement of citizens from community activities

Participation may be both the cause and the result of a well integrated community, and where it does not exist, intergroup (especially interracial) conflict is likely to occur, involving violence, crime, discrimination and prejudice. Where participation in local politics is lacking, corruption and bureaucratic abuse are more likely to occur, because actions taken at the local level are not contested. Participation implies responsibility and where it is not taken, the community is open to anarchy or elitist control of a dictatorial nature. Certain social systems are more conducive to a centrally planned system; lack of communication from authorities to the members of the community may lead to the failure in implementation of social policy and development policy. Urbanization, and consequent separation of the individual from participation in the community, may lead to an increase in stress and mental disorders, in loneliness, suicide, and general deprivation in social life through lack of contact. Extensive property damage, destruction of equipment, abuse of natural resources and vandalism indicate a profound frustration with available forms of participation.