Measuring Tie Strength

摘要: Little attention has been given to the measurement of concept tie strength. Using survey data on friendship ties, we apply multiple indicator techniques construct and validate measures We conclude that: (1) there may be two distinct aspects strength, having do with time spent in a relationship depth relationship; (2) measure "closeness" or intensity is best strength; (3) are difficulties frequency duration contact as indicators (4) predictors strength (e.g., kinship, neighboring) not especially strongly related concept; (5) constructed particularly one "time spent," valid that they predictor variables anticipated directions. Tie probably network attracted most research led way substantive contributions. Research using was initiated by publication Granovetter's (a) paper entitled "The Strength Weak Ties," Granovetter (c) recently provided an overview many studies have invoked concept. Substantive successes visible literature process social mobility, where variations shown systematically outcomes job search efforts, but applications other concerns well. These accomplishments based notable ones. find, however, important gap this literature. sustained (presumably differential) accuracy different mea*This presented at 1983 annual meeting American Sociological Association, session Network Analysis. thank Lois Verbrugge for help understanding nuances sources, Mark Granovetter, Edward 0. Laumann, Rachel Rosenfeld helpful comments. Address correspondence Peter V. Marsden, Department Sociology, Hamilton Hall 070A, University North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. C) 1984 The Carolina Press