Social Network Analysis

Introduction: What Are Social Networks? PART ONE: BACKGROUND UNDERSTANDING Becoming Familiar with Social Networks A Brief History of Social Network Analysis How to Study Social Networks, from Theory to Design PART TWO: LEVELS OF ANALYSIS Actor Level in Complete Networks Actor Level in Ego Networks Dyad and Triad Levels Subgroups Level Network Level Position and Roles Analysis PART THREE: Advances, Extensions and Conclusions Statistical Models for Social Networks Conclusions and Future of the Field Appendices Appendix 1: Getting Started with UCINET Appendix 2: Exponential Random Graph Modelling and Longitudinal Modelling through Siena Appendix 3: Calculating Probability for Transitivity Using Actor-Based Models

This book fills an important void in the social network literature by bringing together theory, methodology and history. Its practical and readable style gives clear guidance on how to do social network research and will be invaluable to anyone undertaking a network study Martin Everett Chair of Social Network Analysis, Manchester University Christina Prell has produced an excellent and well-crafted introduction to methods of social network analysis. She has succeeded in the difficult task of setting out a clear and accessible statement of core ideas together with a judicious overview of the most advanced recent developments. Her discussion concludes with an introduction to basic software for network analysis that will be much valued by all who are new to the area. The book will become an essential guide to the field for newcomers and seasoned users alike John Scott Professor of Sociology, Plymouth University Christina Prell's excellent introduction to social network analysis will be appreciated by social scientists coming to these new approaches for the first time. Fundamental methods are described clearly and succinctly, the advice on how to develop a network-based research study is comprehensive and practical, and the introduction to statistical methods will prepare readers keen to follow more advanced paths. It is pleasing to see a text that includes a proper history of the field. This book provides a very accessible guide for readers who want to learn how to do real network research in the social sciences Garry Robins Associate Professor and Reader Psychological Science, University of Melbourne Interest in social networks comes from all quarters and from persons with varying levels of preparation for understanding the complexities of social network analysis. Prell's Social Network Analysis: History, Theory, and Methodology is admirably suited for newcomers to the field, introducing the basics of social network analysis in a gentle style replete with understandable examples. Newcomers (and their instructors) will also appreciate the ease with which they acquire facility with UCINET, a widely used social analysis software package, by working through the examples John Skvoretz Professor of Sociology at the University of South Florida "I would heartily recommend this book to anyone interested in getting acquainted with SNA. Its pragmatic point of view--with recurring hints on how to perform different kinds of analysis using UCINET, a popular software tool for SNA--makes this book especially suitable for practitioners." -- Fernando Berzal * Computing Reviews * This book by Christina Prell more than adequately fulfils a promise to meet the needs of those coming to the field for the first time, the intermediate researcher looking to develop skills in the field and for teachers seeking a comprehensive account that will help inform their students.[...] It offers a straightforwardly clear and practical 'how to' together with introductions to the favoured computer software applications - always a valuable insight to the neophyte. Indeed if I were to seek a 'foothold' in SNA this is where I would start. -- Dr Ron Iphofen The book is a highly recommendable introduction to the field, remarkable for its clarity, accessibility and completeness, with ambitions to fast-forward its readers from beginners' level up to the point where they can at least appreciate, though perhaps not yet use, advanced models. -- Paola Tubaro * Sociology Journal *