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Defining Prevention Science pp 171–193Cite as

Peer Networks

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Part of the book series: Advances in Prevention Science ((Adv. Prevention Science))

Abstract

Developmental science has long established that children play a role in each other’s psychological and social development. Peers contribute uniquely, and independently from family factors, in the socialization process. In fact peer relations can be considered one of the primary engines of development for children. As children turn into adolescents, networks are formed by interlocking relationships that evolve overtime and have bearing on mental and physical health, mortality, and well-being (Hartup, 2009). Understanding the function of peer networks on increasing risk for and protection against adverse outcomes has become foundational for prevention scientists. Social networks can be defined as relational ties or linkages between a finite number of people and entities. These links, patterns, and pathways have implications and can be structurally mapped for visual and statistical analysis. However, a social network is more than a structural map, and it can be considered a window into ones’ values, meaning, beliefs, status, behavioral and health practices, and social roles. It is a complex, dynamic, and interactive system that represents an ongoing social force in people’s lives. Social networks matter and have implications for various outcomes. For example, extensive evidence exists to support the relationship between social networks and health outcomes, such as health status, health behaviors, and health decision-making (Cattell, 2001; Heaney & Isreal, 1997; House, Umberson, & Landis, 1988; Valente, 2003). Recent research has thrust social networks into the popular media with large, longitudinal studies demonstrating the far-reaching influence of distal (three degrees of separation—the friend of your friend’s friend) network effects on various important issues such as smoking, alcohol use, depression, happiness, and obesity with adults (Christakis & Fowler, 2009). Given these and other important findings regarding the potency of networks, the need exists to increase understanding, training, and application of peer network research within prevention science.

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  1. Commonwealth Institute on Child and Family Studies, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA

    Michael Mason

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    Zili Sloboda

  2. JBS International, Inc., Rockville, USA

    Hanno Petras

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Mason, M. (2014). Peer Networks. In: Sloboda, Z., Petras, H. (eds) Defining Prevention Science. Advances in Prevention Science. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4899-7424-2_8

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