Measuring social networks cross-culturally

✍ Scribed by Alayne M. Adams; Sangeetha Madhavan; Dominique Simon

• Publisher: Elsevier Science
• Year: 2006
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 113 KB
• Volume: 28
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0378-8733
• DOI: 10.1016/j.socnet.2005.07.007

✦ Synopsis

This paper explores the reliability and validity of a cross-cultural survey approach to network measurement using data from two ethnic groups in rural West Africa. Over a 2-week test-retest period, no significant differences in network size were detected. Network composition was less stable over the same period, particularly among peripheral versus core network members. Comparisons with support networks identified through lifecycle interviews and 24 h recall support the construct validity of the survey approach in both ethnic groups.