Fitting ERGMs on big networks.

The exponential random graph model (ERGM) has become a valuable tool for modeling social networks. In particular, ERGM provides great flexibility to account for both covariates effects on tie formations and endogenous network formation processes. However, there are both conceptual and computational...

Descripción completa

Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Social Science Research Vol. 59; pp. 107 - 120
Autor principal: An, Weihua
Formato: Artículo
Publicado: Academic Press Inc. Sep2016
Materias:
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:The exponential random graph model (ERGM) has become a valuable tool for modeling social networks. In particular, ERGM provides great flexibility to account for both covariates effects on tie formations and endogenous network formation processes. However, there are both conceptual and computational issues for fitting ERGMs on big networks. This paper describes a framework and a series of methods (based on existent algorithms) to address these issues. It also outlines the advantages and disadvantages of the methods and the conditions to which they are most applicable. Selected methods are illustrated through examples.