Beyond the dyadic perspective: 10 Reasons for using social network analysis in intergroup contact research. (23rd March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wölfer, Ralf; Hewstone, Miles
• Is Part Of: British journal of social psychology. Volume 56:Part 3(2017:Sep.)
• Page Start: 609
• Page End: 617
• Publication Date: 2017-03-23
• Subjects: diversity -- intergroup contact -- social network analysis; Social psychology -- Periodicals; 302.05
• DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12195
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-6665

Abstract

Abstract : This article presents 10 reasons why social network analysis, a novel but still surprisingly underused approach in social psychology, can advance the analysis of intergroup contact. Although intergroup contact has been shown to improve intergroup relations, conventional methods leave some questions unanswered regarding the underlying social mechanisms that facilitate social cohesion between different groups in increasingly diverse societies. We will therefore explain the largely unknown conceptual and methodological advantages of social network analysis for studying intergroup contact in naturally existing groups, which are likely to help contact researchers to gain a better understanding of intergroup relations and guide attempts to overcome segregation, prejudice, discrimination, and intergroup conflict.