Compare and contrast actors who are considered isolates and bridges

Answer 1

Isolates are persons not connected to any one in the group. Isolates tend to experience less social pressure because of limited ties to others. In studies of adolescent tobacco use, isolates were less likely to conform to the network norm on tobacco use. In instances where isolates were more likely to smoke, smoking was prevalent, and central members had higher smoking rates. If the group norm is positive toward smoking, the isolate is protected from the perceived pressure, whereas the central members are influenced by group norm.
On the other hand, bridges have ties in the network, as well as ties to other networks. Bridges serve as liaisons between two or more otherwise unlinked groups; they bridge the gap between the two groups. Their location on the periphery allows them to move between two or more groups, which can be important for the diffusion of ideas, norms, and behaviors. Bridges between multiple networks also exposes members to the norms, resources, and opportunities of the different networks. The impact of the increased network exposure can be positive or not, depending on the network properties.

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