Modelling and analysis of the dynamics of adaptive temporal–causal network models for evolving social interactions

BACKGROUND: Network-Oriented Modelling based on adaptive temporal–causal networks provides a unified approach to model and analyse dynamics and adaptivity of various processes, including mental and social interaction processes. METHODS: Adaptive temporal–causal network models are based on causal relations by which the states in the network change over time, and these causal relations are adaptive in the sense that they themselves also change over time. RESULTS: It is discussed how modelling and analysis of the dynamics of the behaviour of these adaptive network models can be performed. The approach is illustrated for adaptive network models describing social interaction. CONCLUSIONS: In particular, the homophily principle and the ‘more becomes more’ principles for social interactions are addressed. It is shown how the chosen Network-Oriented Modelling method provides a basis to model and analyse these social phenomena.