Free Recall or Recognition in Collecting Egocentered Networks: The Role of Survey Techniques

The egocentered networks of 479 young adults were studied twice over a 1.5-year period using two different techniques of collecting egocentered network data. In the first study conducted in 1988 - a free recall technique was employed, whereas the second study, starting from 1990, used a recognition technique in generating egocentered networks. It was shown that both techniques lead to different networks not only with respect to morphological features of social networks, but also and more importantly with respect to functional and relational features. The recognition technique seems to be useful in collecting exchange networks with high numbers of network members and strong activity, while free recall produces networks which are smaller and less active in comparison, but nevertheless can be identified as networks of significant others.