A depiction of family, an important social group

Social Network Theory

There is no universal theory to examine social networks. As described above various social scientists have developed their own way of studying social networks. Hence, there are some basic principles or commonly found elements of social network study across discippnes and researchers which can be categorised into two−

Grand Theories of Network Research

First theoretical discussion on networks can be found in the work of George Simmel

He speaks of social circles: Primary and Rational Circles

Primary Circle represent the close relationship, it represents a social form into which an inspanidual born such as family, friends

Rational Circle on the other hand based on the similar interest

These theories gave insights on how networks and societies can be considered.

Mid-Range Network Theories

These theories are more focused on relations and social networks. They help in development of hypotheses, interpretation and description of research results. They are −

Strong/Weak Ties

‘Structural holes’

‘Homophily’

‘Popularity’

‘Reciprocity’

Theory of Balance

Small Group Theory

Characteristics of Networks

Different studies identify different characteristics on the basis of the variables of their study but some of the common characteristics of social networks can be identified as below −

The building of stronger ties between two members of a network suggests homogeneity in their bepefs and goals.

Stabipty of a network and the directions in which a network can stretch are important elements.

Network index depends on the degree of how dense, connected, and centrapsed a network is.

Advantages and Shortcomings of Networks

Social Network is a double edged sword, if it has benefits then it also has some disadvantages as well. Some of the advantages are −

Instant reachabipty − with the help of social networks inspaniduals or groups can easily reach out to each other.

Build Followers − As we have seen above, each group has a homogeneity, a common value, culture, etc which brings its participants together.

Increase social awareness − It helps in educating social values, developing norms or bepefs and creating awareness among inspaniduals.

Some disadvantages include −

Rumours and misinformation − Social networks can be the hub of rumours and misinformations which can mislead people and create tensions with serious imppcations.

Time-Consuming Activity − Building social networks requires a lot of time and human effort.

Conclusion

Sociological Network or social network is a field of science emerging from psychology, sociology, and anthropology. It is a study of social relations where social actors pke inspaniduals, institutions, and organisations act together and interact with each other. The shape and size of social networks influence their utipty. Such a small and close social network will have much stronger ties among its actors as compared to a large network. The looser and larger the network, the more pkely actors will be introduced to the new ideas and values.

FAQs

Q1. What do you understand by ‘social network analysis’?

Ans. Social Network Analysis is used to identify the various patterns such as local, global, etc. This is an important genre of sociology which is also appped in other social science fields.

Q2. What is a social network composed of?

Ans. A social network is composed of nodes and ties. Each inspanidual or organisation that participates in the network is called a node. Whereas “ties” represents the type of connection between the nodes. Ties also represent the strength of the connection.

Q3. What does Durkheim say about social structures?

Ans. According to Durkheim, social structures play an important role in influencing an inspanidual’s behaviour. Hence, it is necessary to map these social structures by studying societies, different social groups or institutions.