Exponential Random Graph Models for Social Networks
Theory, Methods, and Applications

This book provides an account of the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of exponential random graph models (ERGMs).

Dean Lusher (Edited by), Johan Koskinen (Edited by), Garry Robins (Edited by)

9780521141383, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 19 November 2012

360 pages, 71 b/w illus.
22.6 x 15.2 x 2.3 cm, 0.48 kg

'p*, the exponential family of random graph distributions introduced by Frank and Strauss in 1986, has indeed become the best statistical model in network science. This edited volume is a must-have - Lusher, Koskinen, and Robins have put together a thorough compilation for both the p* novice and enthusiast. It is the handbook to own - and use!' Stanley Wasserman, Indiana University

Exponential random graph models (ERGMs) are increasingly applied to observed network data and are central to understanding social structure and network processes. The chapters in this edited volume provide a self-contained, exhaustive account of the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of ERGMs, including models for univariate, multivariate, bipartite, longitudinal and social-influence type ERGMs. Each method is applied in individual case studies illustrating how social science theories may be examined empirically using ERGMs. The authors supply the reader with sufficient detail to specify ERGMs, fit them to data with any of the available software packages and interpret the results.

Introduction Dean Lusher, Johan Koskinen and Garry Robins
1. What are exponential random graph models Garry Robins and Dean Lusher
2. The formation of social network structure Dean Lusher and Garry Robins
3. A simplified account of ERGM as a statistical model Garry Robins and Dean Lusher
4. An example of ERGM analysis Dean Lusher and Garry Robins
5. Exponential random graph model fundamentals Johan Koskinene and Galina Daraganova
6. Dependence graphs and sufficient statistics Johan Koskinen and Galina Daraganova
7. Social selection, dyadic covariates and geospatial effects Garry Robins and Galina Daraganova
8. Autologistic actor attribute models Galina Daraganova and Garry Robins
9. ERGM extensions: models for multiple networks and bipartite networks Peng Wang
10. Longitudinal models Tom Snijders and Johan Koskinen
11. Simulation, estimation and goodness of fit Johan Koskinen and Tom Snijders
12. Illustrations: simulation, estimation and goodness of fit Garry Robins and Dean Lusher
13. Personal attitudes, perceived attitudes and social structures: a social selection model Dean Lusher and Garry Robins
14. How to close a hole: exploring alternative closure mechanisms in inter-organizational networks Alessandro Lomi and Francesca Pallotti
15. Interdependencies between working relations: multivariate ERGMs for advice and satisfaction Yu Zhao and Olaf Rank
16. Brain, brawn or optimism? The structure and correlates of emergent military leadership Yuval Kalish and Gil Luria
17. An ALAAM analysis of unemployment: the dual importance of who you know and where you live Galina Daraganova and Philippa Pattison
18. Longitudinal changes in face-to-face and text message-mediated friendship networks Tasuku Igarashi
19. The differential impact of directors' social and financial capital on corporate interlock formation Nicholas Harrigan and Matthew Bond
20. Comparing networks: a structural correspondence between behavioural and recall networks Eric Quintane
21. Modelling social networks: next steps Philippa Pattison and Tom Snijders.

Subject Areas: Organizational theory & behaviour [KJU], Social research & statistics [JHBC]