SOCIAL NETWORKS AND SOCIAL CAPITAL OF ASSOCIATED STREET WASTE COLLECTORS

Abstract

The aim of this research was to investigate the formation of social networks of work, and the consequent promotion of social capital among members of an association of collectors of recyclable materials. A mapping of the social networks of six participants was done through interviews and the use of specialized software. The results showed that the networks of the associates presented a high level of homophilia, mainly presenting strong ties and a high index of localism. Family, friends and neighbors offer more benefits than the association, given that these relationships represent the greatest source of support and resou-rces for the waste collectors. The characteristics of the members’ social networks, such as significant localism, homophilia, little diversification and no interaction among workers, reveal a work context that does not offer subsidies for the reduction of the social and labor vulnerability of the subjects.

Keywords:
street waste collectors; social networks analysis; social capital; work; worker’s association