Social Networks and Health. Models, Methods, and Applications

ABOUT THIS BOOK

• Ideal for use in graduate introductory courses
• A comprehensive overview of social network research, analysis, and application
• A clear, easy-to-read introduction to the subject

Relationships and the pattern of relationships have a large and varied influence on both individual and group action. The fundamental distinction of social network analysis research is that relationships are of paramount importance in explaining behavior. Because of this, social network analysis offers many exciting tools and techniques for research and practice in a wide variety of medical and public health situations including organizational improvements, understanding risk behaviors, coordinating coalitions, and the delivery of health care services.

This book provides an introduction to the major theories, methods, models, and findings of social network analysis research and application. In three sections, it presents a comprehensive overview of the topic; first in a survey of its historical and theoretical foundations, then in practical descriptions of the variety of methods currently in use, and finally in a discussion of its specific applications for behavior change in a public health context. Throughout, the text has been kept clear, concise, and comprehensible, with short mathematical formulas for some key indicators or concepts. Researchers and students alike will find it an invaluable resource for understanding and implementing social network analysis in their own practice.

Readership: graduate students, researchers, epidemiologists

AUTHOR INFORMATION

Thomas W. Valente, Professor, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California

REVIEWS

"It is a comprehensive introduction to a field that may not be well known to the broader epidemiologic community but could go a long way to making an impact upon researchers if they take the opportunity to see how this approach can be used in a variety of fields. The author has produced a very readable text on an issue of growing importance in epidemiology and public health more generally." - American Journal of Epidemiology