Abstract
To explain changes in the sociometric configuration of a group through time, a problem arises of the extent to which such changes may be viewed as the aggregation of part-processes occurring at the level of two-person choice structures. A possible model is a Markov chain in which three possible states are mutual choice, one-way choice, and indifference, one realization for each pair of choosing individuals in the group. Choice data for an eighth-grade classroom are fitted to this model and are used to answer questions of constancy of transition probabilities, order of the chain, and sex differences.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Anderson, T. W. and Goodman, L. A. Statistical inference about Markov chains.Ann. math. Statist., 1957,28, 89–110.
Feller, W.An introduction to probability theory and its applications. Vol. 1. (2nd ed.) New York: Wiley, 1957.
Taba, H. With perspective on human relations: a study of peer group dynamics in an eighth grade. Washington, D. C.: Amer. Council Educ., 1955.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Katz, L., Proctor, C.H. The concept of configuration of interpersonal relations in a group as a time-dependent stochastic process. Psychometrika 24, 317–327 (1959). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02289814
Received:
Revised:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02289814