Digital Societal Behavior and Social Capital for Sustainable Development: A PRISMA-Based Thematic Review

Abstract

The rapid expansion of digital technologies has transformed how communities interact, collaborate, and mobilize resources, yet a comprehensive understanding of how these innovations bolster social capital to advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) remains fragmented. This systematic review applies the PRISMA 2020 framework to synthesize empirical and review studies published between 2018 and 2025 on digital modalities—ranging from multi-sided platforms and Internet of Things to AI‐driven analytics, blockchain, and immersive reality—and their effects on bonding, bridging, and linking capital across diverse sectors. We identified 180 records through Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and MDPI; after title and abstract screening, 143 articles met inclusion criteria. A thematic analysis, conducted in three batches and guided by Braun & Clarke’s six-step approach, revealed eleven core themes: (1) Digital Transformation & Technology-Driven Social Sustainability, (2) Disaster Resilience & Emergency Management, (3) Health & Well-Being, (4) Agriculture & Food Security, (5) Urban Planning & Infrastructure, (6) Governance & Civic Participation, (7) Energy & Environment, (8) Education & Capacity Building, (9) Tourism & Cultural Heritage, (10) Economic Inclusion & Finance, and (11) Community Sharing & Cooperative Platforms. Quality appraisal using the Crowe Critical Appraisal Tool indicated that 76.9% of studies were of good methodological rigor. Findings show that general digital platforms accelerate information flow and transparency, while tech-specific innovations (e.g., blockchain for secure transactions, AR/VR for immersive engagement) strengthen trust and participation in sector-specific contexts. Gaps include limited longitudinal evidence, underrepresentation of Global South settings, and interoperability challenges among platforms. We propose a research agenda emphasizing longitudinal designs, cross-platform integration, and expanded empirical work in underserved regions. This review offers a consolidated roadmap for policymakers, practitioners, and scholars seeking to leverage digital societal behavior in pursuit of sustainable development.