Social networks: Connections in structures

Abstract

Social network is a structure made up of a set of social actors and a set of ties between these actors. The social network provides an analysis of the structure of social entities as well as a variety of theories explaining the patterns observed in these structures (Wasserman and Faust 1994). The nodes may be individuals, groups, organizations, or societies. It is focused on uncovering the patterning of people’s interaction. These patterns are important features of the lives of the individuals. Our choices depend in large part on how that we are tied into the larger social network. In conclusion, investigating interactions is important for understanding patterns because interactions help to define and identify groups or organizations and the members within these entities. In addition, the investigation of interactions may provide a better understanding of how leaders may appear within organizations because interactions help to define structure and context.