Permeability of Low Income Neighbourhoods

Abstract

This paper examines the concept of neighbourhood permeability in the context of deprived urban districts, with particular attention to Turkish homeowners in Germany. While living in disadvantaged areas is often associated with reduced life chances, the extent and mechanisms of neighbourhood effects remain unclear, especially in Europe. The study investigates how residents build “bridges” to external resources through networks, institutions such as schools, and trans-neighbourhood interactions, and how these processes contribute to functional and social integration. At the same time, it explores the construction of internal boundaries and social distinctions within neighbourhoods, which can limit the benefits of social mixing strategies. By analysing these dynamics, the paper argues that neighbourhood permeability—defined as both bridging outward and managing internal boundaries—is a key factor for understanding the strength and nature of neighbourhood effects.