Social cartography and participatory mapping in community-based management: a systematic review

Social cartography and participatory mapping in community-based management: a systematic review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5027/psicoperspectivas-Vol24-Issue3-fulltext-3414

Keywords:

community participation, community resilience, community risk management, participatory mapping, social mapping

Abstract

Social cartography is a key participatory methodology in local disaster risk management, as it allows the representation of issues, resources, and community adaptation strategies. The objective of this study was to analyze how empirical research has used social cartography in community-based risk management processes. For this purpose, we conducted a systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Databases consulted were Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCOhost, and SciELO, selecting 22 articles in English and Spanish published between 2010 and 2024 that met the eligibility criteria. The protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework (OSF). Results show the predominant use of social mapping to identify areas of risk, vulnerability factors, threats, resources, and previous disaster experiences. However, community participation was concentrated at the consultative level, with little impact on decision-making. Although the incorporation of geospatial technologies has improved the accuracy and applicability of mapping, challenges remain in its conceptualization and evaluation. We conclude that strengthening this tool requires promoting processes of co-construction of knowledge, collective deliberation, and participatory planning aimed at social learning and the sustainability of community actions.

Author Biographies

José Sandoval-Díaz, Universidad del Bío-Bío

PhD in Psychology, University of Chile (2018), Master's Degree in Applied Social Sciences, University of Tarapacá (2012), Psychologist, University of Tarapacá (2009). Specialization in Social Research Methods and Techniques, FLACSO / CLACSO (2024). Diploma in Quantitative Methods of Psychosocial Research (2013) and Qualitative Methodologies of Psychosocial Research, both from the University of Chile (2014). His research interests are: individual and collective capacities in the process of socio-natural disaster risk, and the subjective dimension of social vulnerability.

Consuelo Suazo-Muñoz, Centro de Estudios Ñuble, Universidad del Bío Bío

Consuelo Suazo-Muñoz is psychologist and research associate at the Centro de Estudios Ñuble at the Universidad del Bío-Bío, with experience in risk perception, participatory methodologies, and community resilience. Her work focuses on community-based disaster risk management and the production of knowledge situated in territories affected by socio-environmental threats.

Camila Navarrete-Valladares, Universidad de Concepción

Camila Paz Navarrete-Valladares is psychologist, graduated from the Universidad del Bío-Bío and is currently pursuing a PhD in Psychology at the University of Concepción. Her research focuses on aging, climate change, and adaptive capacities, contributing to environmental gerontology and community psychology of risk through studies on the vulnerability and adaptation of older adults.

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Published

2025-11-15

How to Cite

Sandoval-Díaz, J., Suazo-Muñoz, C., & Navarrete-Valladares, C. (2025). Social cartography and participatory mapping in community-based management: a systematic review. Psicoperspectivas, 24(3). https://doi.org/10.5027/psicoperspectivas-Vol24-Issue3-fulltext-3414
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