Subject:
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NON-RU research Onderzoek niet-RU |
Abstract:
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This paper presents a model of social network evolution, to predict and simulate
changes in social networks induced by lifecycle events. We argue that social networks
change with lifecycle events, and we extend a model of friendship selection to
incorporate these dynamics of personal social networks. The model uses theories of
homophily and reciprocity and is formulated in a random utility maximization framework
to predict the formation of social ties between individuals in the population. It is then
extended to predict the evolution of social networks in response to life cycle events. The
model is estimated using attribute data of a national sample and an event-based retrospective
dataset collected in 2009 and 2011 respectively. Findings suggest that homophily
has a strong effect on the formation of new ties. However, heterophily also plays a role in
maintaining existing ties. Although the motivation of this research stems from incorporating
social network dynamics in large-scale travel behaviour micro-simulation models,
the research can be used in a variety of fields for similar purposes
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