The analysis of multiple ties in longitudinal egocentric network data: A case study on bidirectional relationships between trust and drug use

We extend multi-level models to examine single egocentric network ties to the joint analysis of paired dynamic ties. Two analytic challenges are addressed. First, inference needs to account for multiple layers of nesting: ties are nested within pairs, pairs are nested within time points, and time points are nested within egos. Second, the focus is on the relationship between two dynamic ties; specification of outcome and predictor may be difficult. Instead, we treat both ties as outcomes. Our approach is used to analyze trust and reported drug use between egos and alters over time in a Bayesian framework.

► Multi-level models are applied to pairs of longitudinal egocentric network ties.
► Tie relationships are examined between concurrent and lagged time points.
► Models and diagnostic tests are presented in a Bayesian framework.