How new is New? Who gets added in a panel study of personal networks?

Using longitudinal data from UCNets, we examined newly-listed alters and distinguished between truly new ties who were recently met (typically coworkers and acquaintances) and awakened ties who were previously known to ego (typically extended kin and friends). Half of the newly-listed ties among the younger respondents were truly new, whereas two-thirds among the older respondents were awakened. In both groups, however, most alters were previously listed. These ties mainly included kin, confidants, and advisors, suggesting stability in the network core. Methodological implications for the name-generating process and substantive implications for the understanding of network dynamics and structure are discussed.

Automated summary

Using longitudinal data from UCNets, this study examined new ties and categorized them as either truly new or awakened ties. The results showed that among younger respondents, half of the new ties were truly new, while among older respondents, two-thirds were awakened ties. However, in both groups, the majority of ties were previously listed, indicating stability in the network core.