Understanding Peer Influence in Hunter Harvest Decisions Using Social Network Theory and Analysis. Issue 5 (2nd September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kramer, Daniel Boyd; Mitterling, Anna; Frank, Kenneth A.
• Is Part Of: Human dimensions of wildlife. Volume 21:Issue 5(2016)
• Page Start: 414
• Page End: 426
• Publication Date: 2016-09-02
• Subjects: Anterless -- cooperatives -- deer management -- hunting -- social network analysis; Wildlife management -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Fishery management -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 333.95405
• DOI: 10.1080/10871209.2016.1183243
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1087-1209

Abstract

ABSTRACT: State wildlife agencies are increasingly seeking the advice and cooperation of wildlife stakeholders, including that of private hunting cooperatives. While there is some evidence that the interests and actions of private deer cooperatives align with those of state wildlife agencies, little is known about the internal social mechanisms that explain this. Social network theory and analysis can shed some light on these internal group dynamics. This article used egocentric network analysis to examine the effect of peer groups on the antlerless harvest decisions of individuals in private deer cooperatives. Our primary result was that the members of one's egocentric network influence the harvest behavior of that individual, providing some evidence for the potential of social network theory and analysis to understand and improve on the strategies used to address a variety of resource-related problems in wildlife management and conservation.