Subgroups

Abstract

The social systems contained in networks often exhibit complex structures. For example, in his classic The strength of weak ties, Granovetter (1973) suggested that many social networks are made up of relatively densely connected subgroups (e.g., friendship subnetworks) that are themselves only connected via less common ties (e.g., between acquaintances). It then follows that it will be important to be able to define and identify such subgroups. Many disciplines have theories that assume that larger social systems are made up of distinguishable subgroups, for example sociologists consider social classes; psychologists examine small group behavior, and public health examine health disparities between different social groups.

Our young people are faced by a series of different groups which believe different things and advocate different practices, and to each of which some trusted friend or relative may belong. (Margaret Mead)