A model for the multiplex dynamics of two-mode and one-mode networks, with an application to employment preference, friendship, and advice

We propose a new stochastic actor-oriented model for the co-evolution of two-mode and one-mode networks. The model posits that activities of a set of actors, represented in the two-mode network, co-evolve with exchanges and interactions between the actors, as represented in the one-mode network. The model assumes that the actors, not the activities, have agency.The empirical value of the model is demonstrated by examining how employment preferences co-evolve with friendship and advice relations in a group of seventy-five MBA students. The analysis shows that activity in the two-mode network, as expressed by number of employment preferences, is related to activity in the friendship network, as expressed by outdegrees. Further, advice ties between students lead to agreement with respect to employment preferences. In addition, considering the multiplexity of advice and friendship ties yields a better understanding of the dynamics of the advice relation: tendencies to reciprocation and homophily in advice relations are mediated to an important extent by friendship relations.The discussion pays attention to the implications of this study in the broader context of current efforts to model the co-evolutionary dynamics of social networks and individual behavior.

► A stochastic actor-oriented model is presented for the co-evolution of one-mode and two-mode networks.
► The dynamics is studied of friendship, advice, and employment preferences in an MBA cohort.
► There is a positive triadic dependency between advice ties and agreement in employment preferences.
► Advice and friendship are positively associated at the dyad level and negatively at the actor level.
► Reciprocation and homophily in advice are largely mediated by friendship relations.