Social Network Analysis The following presents S

The following presents Social Network Analysis, a statistical method of analyzing social networks based on Multi-dimensional Scaling (MDS). A description of social network analysis, what it is used for, and how data are typically collected are discussed.

Social network analysis is a statistical method used to discover patterning within an individual's interactions with another. Social structure can be visible revealing a patterned interaction. Network analysis considers the importance of these patterns in the lives of individuals and the overall social network. The network approach to studying behavior includes a formal theory that is organized in mathematical terms and it is based on a systematic analysis of empirical data (International Network for Social Network Analysis [INSNA], 2004).

Social network analysis allows for empirical investigation and theoretical analysis as well as application of network techniques to organizational interventions (Nelson, 1988). This analysis is based on Multidimensional Scaling (MDS), which includes mathematical techniques that allow for the discovery of patterns. An example of MDS use is found in political science. MDSD can locate political candidates with a map showing spatial configurations to determine answers to questions such as "What identifiable features can we discern in the varying evaluations of the candidates that can help us understand what led individual citizens to their decisio

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arding service employees along with the motivations for the expectations. Data was collected among 231 customers to determine their desires regarding service employees of clothing stores. Data was gathered from a questionnaire asking for a recall of a recent purchase and the details of the experience. Next, boxes were filled out to demonstrate a sequence of desired expectations. Findings showed three orientations in customer desire expectations (process, outcome, and relational aspects). The most central variable was "Feel good" functions, which was determined by "Friendly," "Give advice," "Reduce uncertainty," and "Product quality." Coles (2001) pointed out another use of social network analysis: the investigation of criminal networks or organized crime. The author pointed out that to provide conclusive evidence to support the existence of national criminal networks, more than available data is needed - there must be a method to analyze this data. Social network analysis provides for this empirical analysis. Ayuku, Odero, Kaplan, De Bruyn, and De Vries (2003) demonstrated that social network analysis can be used for health and social interventions. This analysis was used to help street children in Kenya, where povert

Category: Psychology - S