Interventions: Leadership, helping, networking, and organizational learning.

Abstract

(from the chapter) This chapter examines how social network interventions can increase goal achievement and performance. In dynamic network theory, a network intervention is defined as the intentional manipulation of dynamic network systems to improve goal achievement and performance in social networks. Extending principles from Chapter 1 and 2, which were summarized in Exhibit 1.1 and Figure 1.2, dynamic network theory proposes that successful network interventions result from (a) the promotion of network motivation toward goals by the activation of goal strivers and system supporters; (b) the mitigation of network resistance emanating from goal preventers and supportive resistors; (c) the mitigation of dysfunctional network reactance, such as that from entities who are overreacting to others in the social network; (d) the promotion of system competencies; and (e) the initiation of effective network regulation processes, such as the proper execution of the monitoring, feedback, and change process. Interactants and observers in peripheral roles could also be targeted if they have significant effects in a system. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)