Social Ties Research Articles

Loneliness and Expanding Social Ties in Later Life: Motivation, Perceived Success, and Implications for Emotional Health.

Social networks undergo changes in later life, reflecting proactive decreases as well as increases in size, but relatively little is known about the factors that motivate older adults to expand their social ties. Loneliness might be expected to motivate older adults to expand their social ties. Paradoxically, however, studies of younger age groups have linked loneliness to a self-protective reluctance to initiate social contact. The current study investigated whether loneliness fosters or inhibits older adults' efforts to expand their social ties and whether successful efforts are related to gains in emotional health. Loneliness, motivation to expand social ties, and emotional health were assessed in a subset of older participants (N = 375) from the Later Life Study of Social Exchanges. Greater loneliness was associated with less interest, less investment of effort, and less success in making new ties and rekindling dormant ties. Nonetheless, lonelier older adults who expanded their social ties, particularly by rekindling dormant ties, exhibited some gains in emotional health over a 1-year period. Greater attention to the role of loneliness in older adults' motivations for making new ties or rekindling dormant ties will broaden our understanding of social network changes in later life.

Transfer entropy on collective motion with undeclared loose leader–follower (LLF) structure

During an emergency or evacuation, individuals focus on the movement of their neighbors and follow those in sight, even without social affiliation, forming the undeclared Loose Leader-Follower (LLF) group, rather than the usual assumption of following certain rules in most of evacuation models. Inspired by the real-life experience and experimental data, the study develops a novel stochastic process-based evacuation model, integrated the LLF structure in collective motion to clarify the mechanism underlying individual interaction and refine the walking process according to attainable information. Transfer entropy (TE), a model-free measure of the direction of information flow, is used to detect the role of the individuals in the LLF structure from the time-series reconstructed motion information (e.g., the walking coordinate series). To reduce the error of the role detection, according to the 3σ principle for TE values, the detection threshold is decided based on the surrogate walking data. For simulation of their motion decision in the LLF structure, the TE is integrated into the walking behavior mode (TE-POMDP) using the Partially Observable Markov Decision Process (POMDP), that produces their motion behavior under the typical attained information condition. The results show that the TE-POMDP can provide more realistic trajectories. Additionally, we find that a ‘Delta-like’ formation of leading group distribution was presented and remained stable in the procession after a short period of confusion in early stage.

Adolescents with eating disorders during the COVID-19 pandemic: Changes in social ties and healthcare modalities.

Introduction. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the health of young people worldwide, especially on people with eating disorders (EDs) due to the stress, anxiety, and changes experienced in access to health care. Objective. To explore adolescents' perceptions on changes in their social ties and the modalities of health care for patients with EDs. Population and methods. Qualitative study using in-depth interviews with adolescents with EDs seen at a teaching hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results. Fifteen adolescents were interviewed; their mean age was 18 years; 93% were girls. Anorexia nervosa was observed in 86.6%. The most relevant negative aspects perceived were discomfort with family life (80%) and dissatisfaction with social media content regarding body image and dieting (73%). The aspects perceived as positive were peer support (66%) and improvements in eating habits (66%). The main change identified regarding the management before the COVID-19 pandemic was online followup by the mental healthcare team (73%). Conclusion. The adolescent population with EDs during the mandatory social isolation period reported discomfort with family life and dissatisfaction with social media content regarding body image and dieting. Notwithstanding this, adolescents highlighted peer support and improvements in their eating habits as positive aspects.

Later Life Food Insecurity and Social Isolation in Ghana: The Importance of Psychological Factors.

Social isolation (SI) and food insecurity (FI) are important social determinants of health that can negatively impact well-being in old age. While research on the association between FI and SI is limited in LMICs, the mediators of this association are largely unknown. This cross-sectional study examined whether FI is associated with SI among older adults in Ghana and whether psychological factors (i.e., depression, anxiety, and sleep problems) mediated the association. Our study consisted of adults aged ≥50years in the Aging, Health, Well-being, and Health-seeking Behavior Study. SI was assessed with the Berkman-Syme Social Network Index, while FI was assessed with dietary inadequacy-related items. We used an ordinary least squares regression(OLS), logistic regressions, and bootstrapping modeling approach to examine our hypotheses with p<0.05. The analysis included 1201 individuals (Mage=66 [SD=12], women=63%). In the full sample (β=0.21; p<0.001) and in women (β=0.30, p<0.001) but not in men, FI was independently associated with SI. FI was comparably associated with increases in SI for the 50-64 age group (β=0.21, p<0.001) and ≥65 age cohort (β=0.19, p<0.01). Moreover, FI showed differential associations with specific domains of SI (OR=1.81 to 1.45, p<0.001). Finally, the FI-SI association was mediated by depressive symptoms (65.16%), anxiety symptoms (30.16%), and sleep problems (9.50%). Our data highlight the fundamental role of FI in SI among older adults, and the effect is explained by psychosocial factors. Interventions targeted toward strengthening interpersonal ties in old age should include addressing FI and older adults' psychosocial outcomes.

Reflections on the health-related effects of social ties with pastors

Reflections on the health-related effects of social ties with pastors

The Weakness of Weak Ties: Do Social Capital Investments Among Leaders Pay off During Disasters

The Weakness of Weak Ties: Do Social Capital Investments Among Leaders Pay off During Disasters

The Influence of Psychosocial Factors on the Popularity of Consumer Behavior

This essay delves into the profound impact of psychosocial factors on the emergence and diffusion of popularity, highlighting the intricate dynamics that govern consumer preferences. The herding effect, wherein individuals follow the majority, is a pivotal force shaping trends. Consumers are drawn to products or ideas with widespread acceptance, influenced by the collective consciousness of society. Aesthetics also wield significant influence, as visually and sensory pleasing attributes enhance a product's appeal, contributing to its popularity. Moreover, the compelling drive of social affiliation emerges as a powerful force shaping consumer choices. The inherent human need for belonging and acceptance influences product selection, amplified by social media platforms where individuals showcase preferences, creating virtual spaces for exchanging ideas and trends.In conclusion, the interplay of psychosocial factors, including the herding effect, aesthetic appeal, and social affiliation, profoundly shapes the landscape of consumer popularity. Recognizing and understanding these influences are crucial for businesses, marketers, and policymakers navigating the ever-evolving societal context of consumer behavior. By acknowledging the potency of these factors, stakeholders can strategically leverage them to anticipate and respond to shifts in consumer preferences, ultimately fostering successful engagement in the dynamic marketplace.

Chinese Relational Sociology: An Analysis of the Theoretical Paradigm of Guanxi Studies in the Chinese Context

The concept of Guanxi refers to social ties that are empowered by cultural specificity in Chinese societies, with its purpose of motivating and utilizing embedded resources in networking structure and practices under the principles of Confucius regulation and norms set by actors. In this paper, the author comprehensively analyzes theoretical and empirical contributions to guanxi studies in the Chinese context, initiating further directions for its development. Currently, guanxi studies are dominated by the main paradigm of network analysis, while the cultural elements of its connotation are interpreted via anthropological perspectives. This paper argues a &amp;ldquo;relational turn&amp;rdquo; led by Mustafa Emirbayer, Harrison White, and Jan Fuhse that contributes to the interactive analysis of cultural and economic values in Relational Sociology (RS), which leads to a more sophisticated interpretation. Such perspective of theoretical approach, argues (1) the combination of localized and universal framework of theories in interpersonal communications, (2) moderation and inter-correlation in debates between constructivist and structuralist perspectives, and (3) interaction between economic and cultural elements.

Marked by Association(s): A Social Network Approach to Investigating Mental Health-Related Associative Stigma.

With most scholarly attention directed toward understanding the stigma experiences of individuals with mental illness, less attention has been given to associative stigma: an understudied form of social exclusion and devaluation experienced by the social ties of stigmatized individuals. This study advances scholarly understanding of associative stigma by drawing on social network methods to better illuminate how the quantity and quality of social relationships with those dealing with mental illness impact experiences of perceived discrimination. Using a nationally representative sample from the General Social Survey, I find that (1) knowing more people with mental illness, (2) having more core (friends and family members) versus peripheral ties, and (3) having ties who are most at risk of facing public stigma themselves (e.g., stereotype-confirming ties) are associated with greater perceived discrimination experiences. Taken together, these findings shed light on how pervasive associative stigma truly is.

Kodokushi as the Impact of Juggernaut of Modernity in Japanese Hyper-Aging Era

This article aims to describe the phenomenon of kodokushi (lonely death) among the elderly in Japan’s hyper-aging society as a negative impact of modernity. The research is analyzed through Anthony Giddens’ juggernaut of modernity perspective. The juggernaut is a walking machine (giant panzer) with extraordinary power, which we can steer to a certain extent but is also likely to lose control and tear itself to pieces. The results show that the phenomenon of lonely death (kodokushi) in the elderly reflects the uncontrollable juggernaut of modernity. Changes in family structure, the decline in birth rates, and cultural values that Japanese people hold cause kodokushi to remain high in Japan, especially among the elderly. Elderly people who live alone without traditional family or community ties live in social isolation. In the context of Giddens' Juggernaut of Modernity, the juggernaut has lost control. The phenomenon of kodokushi reflects complex challenges. Many older people experience isolation and loneliness due to a lack of strong social ties. Culturally, the ingrained culture of not wanting to inconvenience others (meiwaku wo kakutakunai) in Japanese society is a barrier to overcoming kodokushi. Addressing this phenomenon requires holistic efforts from the government, social institutions, and society. Although efforts to overcome kodokushi have been made, understanding and dealing with these complexities is crucial in Japan's hyper-aging society.

CONSTRUCTION OF IDENTITY IN THE DIGITAL AGE AND THE MECHANISMS OF SOCIAL CONTROL

The article analyzes the main approaches to understanding the nature of identity construction and the mechanisms of social control in the digital age. Digitalization, globalization, and the transition of modern society to a networked or digital state have created new conditions for constructing identity, which is becoming more flexible and changeable. A close relationship between the nature of identity formation and practices of social control has been proven. The construction of identity in the digital society is a complex process involving individuals’ interaction with technology, social media and information systems. This process serves as a form of social control, establishing norms, influencing behavior, and shaping identities by social, economic, and political interests. Social networks are becoming important channels of identity formation, where individuals interact with different groups and virtual communities. The regulatory, economic, and political control mechanisms in the digital environment are described. It is proved that online platforms contribute to the construction of social ties, which ensures social control by influencing the content and nature of interactions. They also form prevailing unified patterns and models of action, influencing the identity and social behavior of individuals. Information and communication technologies offer new opportunities for self-expression and self-identification, but at the same time pose challenges to the preservation of the personal self. Therefore, it is necessary to take these issues into account in studies of digital culture and social media. Identity is not isolated or autonomous but is formed through constant interconnections with society and under the influence of various mechanisms of social control. The subject always has the opportunity to create new forms of identity and go beyond fixed roles and functions. However, it is also important to find a balance between the use of digital technologies and the preservation of real communications, while minimizing the negative consequences.

Working Remotely, Feeling Remote? The Role of Digitally Mediated Communication in Shaping the Identity of Virtual Expatriates.

Utilizing the social identity theory, this conceptual article has proposed how digitally mediated communication between expatriates and host country nationals (HCNs) in a remote work arrangement is linked with individualized change experiences of virtual expatriates. The conceptualized model proposes that the lack of in-depth conversations via virtual communication platforms leads to the development of weak emotional interactions between virtual expatriates and HCNs. However, weakened emotional interactions might result in positive or negative impact on expatriates' identity based on personality-based differences. In this regard, expatriates with collective self-esteem are likely to experience social identity threats because of weakened social ties with HCNs. Contrary to the above group, expatriates having personal self-esteem would view weak socialization as an opportunity and experience an improvement in their leader identity, thus experience a positive social identity change over time. This research has conceptually explored outcomes of digitally mediated communication between expatriates and HCNs on the identity change experiences of expatriates, and holistically covers the role of positive as well as negative change experiences. Unlike the focus of the majority of literature on traditional expatriation, the proposed model has focused on experiences of virtual expatriates, and how working in remote work settings lead to long-term socio-psychological changes in these individuals.

Designing for the materialization of networked learning spaces

The potential of a Networked Learning (NL) space comes into being when participants establish communication, build connections among each other, and create a dialogic space. Moving from this premise, this article poses a complex question: How to design for the materialization of a NL space? It bases its theoretical framework on Bakhtin’s idea of centrifugal and centripetal forces, the concepts of network core and periphery, as well as the idea of the strength of weak ties. Through these lenses, the article presents a cross-case analysis of two projects aiming at technology education in Denmark. Forces, connections, and movements are exposed and analyzed, showing the importance of unstructured communication processes that nurture a networked community. These results lead to new speculations for future educational design of NL spaces.

Are social supports always protective? A seven-city study on heavy drinking among sexual and gender minority young adults experiencing homelessness

PurposeSexual and gender minority (SGM) young adults are disproportionately impacted by homelessness and heavy drinking (i.e., having five or more drinks of alcohol in a row within a couple of hours). Social support, in general, is protective in reducing individuals’ risk of heavy drinking. However, whether and how support from different sources may have different implications on heavy drinking among SGM young adults experiencing homelessness (SGM-YAEH) remains unclear. Informed by the risk amplification and abatement model (RAAM), this study examined the associations between support sources and heavy drinking among SGM-YAEH. MethodsA purposive sample of SGM-YAEH (N=425) recruited in homeless service agencies from seven major cities in the U.S. completed a self-administered computer-assisted anonymous survey. This survey covered heavy drinking behaviors and social network properties. Logistic regression models were conducted to identify social support sources associated with SGM-YAEH’s heavy drinking. ResultsOver 40 % of SGM-YAEH were involved in heavy drinking in the past 30 days. Receiving support from street-based peers (OR=1.9; 95 % CI=1.1, 3.2) and home-based peers (OR=1.7; 95 % CI=1.0, 2.8) were each positively associated with SGMYAEH heavy drinking risks. ConclusionThis study was not able to identify the protective role social supports may play in reducing SGM-YAEH’s heavy drinking. Furthermore, receiving support from network members was correlated with elevated heavy drinking risks among this population. As heavy drinking prevention programs develop interventions: they should use affirming and trauma approaches to promote protective social ties, as research points to its association in reducing alcohol use disparities among SGM-YAEH.

Collective Efficacy and Mixed-Tenure Redevelopment: Insights from Toronto’s Regent Park Neighborhood

It is asserted that mixed-tenure public housing redevelopments can improve informal social control in targeted neighborhoods. We investigate this question using a validated measure of collective efficacy from a survey of residents in Toronto’s Regent Park neighborhood. We find that social housing residents report higher perceived levels of collective efficacy than do residents of the market buildings and that households with children report higher perceptions of collective efficacy than do households without children. Our findings provide some support for existing best practices, particularly the provision of amenities for families and the preservation of social ties among social tenants.

From communal places to comfort zones: Familiar stranger encounters in everyday life as a form of belonging

Familiar strangers, individuals who are visually recognisable yet do not engage in verbal conversations, emerge in communal urban places on the way and in between regular daily activities in the home and workplace. Described as invisible social ties and light touch community, familiar strangers represent an understudied and untapped source of sociality that offer promise by way of an antidote to the global increase in reports of loneliness. In this study, we examine the extent to which familiar stranger encounters in communal everyday places might act as an important source of social identity, belonging and perceived attachment. We estimate regression models using data from a 2022 intercept survey of 278 residents in Brisbane, Australia conducted in situ at public parks, transit stations, retail environments, and thoroughfares to estimate the influence of familiar strangers and frequency of visitation on sense of belonging and place attachment. Our results show belonging emerges through familiar stranger encounters in everyday communal places outside of the residential neighbourhood and suggest that coupling urban design features that enhance visible proximity with scheduling that encourages repeated, synchronised visitation can contribute to bounded communities of belonging at everyday communal places.

The powerful influence of connections: exploring the effects of wasta informal networks on human resource development in Kuwait

ABSTRACT This research examines the consequences of engaging with wasta while practicing fair and ethical human resource management (HRM) in organizations in Kuwait. Weak ties have been established to be a powerful positive force for job seekers in the Western world, but in the Middle Eastern context, powerful close connections known as wasta exert a crucial impact on the pursuit of employment. We explore the relationship between wasta, HRM, and human resource development (HRD) in Kuwait using social exchange theory. Based on 24 semi-structured interviews, the study determines that the outcomes identified with wasta in businesses are considerable. Due to its disruption of standard HRM practices, wasta not only influences access to employment but also impacts employees’ professional development and their entire performance throughout their time with an organization. By unpacking this powerful but previously seldom explored phenomenon, this study expands conceptual frameworks on social influence and personal connections in the workplace, particularly regarding wasta. Additionally, it provides recommendations for lessening the undesirable outcomes of wasta and improving employee and organizational evolution in the fair practice of HRM.

“I just really disconnected, not completely”: Extended Walking Pilgrimage, Smart Phones, and Social Ties

“I just really disconnected, not completely”: Extended Walking Pilgrimage, Smart Phones, and Social Ties

How the Human-Like Characteristics of AI Assistants Affect Employee Creativity: A Social Network Ties Perspective

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) powered AI assistants provide opportunities to promote employee creativity. However, existing research ignores exploring the impact of AI assistants’ unique human-like characteristics on employee creativity, which means there are insufficient practical guidelines for implementing and designing AI assistants to promote employee creativity. Based on social network theory, this study constructs a theoretical model to investigate the relationship between the human-like characteristics of AI assistants and employee creativity and uses structural equation modeling to analyze questionnaire data from 243 employees. The results show that perceived intelligence and anthropomorphism of AI assistants positively influence employees-AI instrumental and expressive ties, both of which can enhance employee creativity. In particular, perceived intelligence has a stronger effect on the employee-AI instrumental ties, while perceived anthropomorphism has a stronger effect on the employee-AI expressive ties. In addition, the interaction intensity weakens the positive effects of perceived anthropomorphism on employee-AI instrumental and expressive ties. These findings provide practical guidance for implementing and designing AI assistants to promote employee creativity.

Cookin’ the Books: How Waitlist Management Biases Data Production in Built for Zero Communities

Built for Zero (BFZ) is a new data-driven approach to allocating housing assistance to homeless households. BFZ implementation includes the production/maintenance of a “by-name list” (BNL). The BNL is a regularly updated spreadsheet with personalised data about everyone who enters and exits a local homeless system (i.e., flow). Local administrators use the BNL to produce “by-name data” (BND). BND lets administrators monitor and manipulate system flow in “real time.” Scholars have not analysed how administrators manage their BNL and produce BND. This paper starts that conservation by answering three questions with interview data that was collected from administrators at 28 “BFZ communities” (i.e., homeless systems implementing BFZ): How do administrators manage their BNL? What factors influence BNL management? How does BNL management affect BND accuracy? Using thematic analysis, the author provides evidence that administrators manage the length of their BNL by removing “inactive” clients who have disengaged from service providers. Administrators try to verify housing status before deeming someone inactive. The verification process is shaped by social policies, network ties, virtual interactions, and administrative discretion. Because those things vary across homeless systems, administrators face different constraints and enablers whilst verifying someone’s housing status. The intersection of contextual factors and subjective processes biases the BND administrators produce from their BNL.