Abstract

Negative consequences of residential segregation are well known. However, little has been said about the results of proximity among different income households. Different studies have arrived at varying conclusions: in some research proximity appears as a different expression of exclusion; in others, residential proximity emerges as an opportunity for integration among low-income households. The aim of this study is to add to this debate by analyzing the social dynamics underlying residential proximity. Through qualitative case studies, this work concludes that proximity is related to both dynamics of social inclusion for low income residents, and to the reinforcement of social cohesion. Such positive effects are possible because proximity clearly shows a shared belonging to a social project of mobility. However, this common project and its positive effects become weaker when social distance is too large, and in cases with a history of violence.