Statistical network analysis for analyzing policy networks

TY - JOUR

T1 - Statistical network analysis for analyzing policy networks

AU - Robins, Garry

AU - Lewis, Jenny

AU - Wang, Peng

PY - 2012/8

Y1 - 2012/8

N2 - To analyze social network data using standard statistical approaches is to risk incorrect inference. The dependencies among observations implied in a network conceptualization undermine standard assumptions of the usual general linear models. One of the most quickly expanding areas of social and policy network methodology is the development of statistical modeling approaches that can accommodate such dependent data. In this article, we review three network statistical methods commonly used in the current literature: quadratic assignment procedures, exponential random graph models (ERGMs), and stochastic actor-oriented models. We focus most attention on ERGMs by providing an illustrative example of a model for a strategic information network within a local government. We draw inferences about the structural role played by individuals recognized as key innovators and conclude that such an approach has much to offer in analyzing the policy process.

AB - To analyze social network data using standard statistical approaches is to risk incorrect inference. The dependencies among observations implied in a network conceptualization undermine standard assumptions of the usual general linear models. One of the most quickly expanding areas of social and policy network methodology is the development of statistical modeling approaches that can accommodate such dependent data. In this article, we review three network statistical methods commonly used in the current literature: quadratic assignment procedures, exponential random graph models (ERGMs), and stochastic actor-oriented models. We focus most attention on ERGMs by providing an illustrative example of a model for a strategic information network within a local government. We draw inferences about the structural role played by individuals recognized as key innovators and conclude that such an approach has much to offer in analyzing the policy process.

KW - social network models

KW - statistical models

KW - quadratic assignment procedure

KW - exponential random graph models

KW - stochastic actor-oriented models

KW - Innovation

U2 - 10.1111/j.1541-0072.2012.00458.x

DO - 10.1111/j.1541-0072.2012.00458.x

M3 - Journal article

VL - 40

SP - 375

EP - 401

JO - Policy Studies Journal

JF - Policy Studies Journal

SN - 0190-292X

IS - 3

ER -