City Research Online

Abstract

This paper presents a statistical network model that extends the Block Two-Level Erdos–R ˝ enyi (BTER) ´ framework by incorporating node-level attributes, specifically age, as a basis for community formation. To capture broader degree variability, the model integrates an adapted Chung-Lu mechanism for intercommunity links. The resulting structure is particularly suited for analyzing small-sized networks where connections are shaped by age differences between individuals. We calibrate the model using empirical data from a Dutch women’s friendship survey, which captures age-based homophily in social relationships. Through simulation, we generate networks whose degree distributions and clustering coefficients closely resemble those observed in real-world community networks. This approach offers a flexible and interpretable framework for studying how node-level characteristics influence network topology, and provides a useful tool for agent-based modeling applications.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	This is a pre-copyedited, author-produced version of an article accepted for publication in Journal of Complex Networks following peer review. The version of record Jeong, S. Y., Owadally, I. , Haberman, S. & Wright, D. (2025). Community structured network model based on age differences. Journal of Complex Networks, will be available online at: https://academic.oup.com/comnet
Publisher Keywords:	Network studies; Network constructions; Network homophily; Friendship network; Simulation studies; Age disparity
Subjects:	G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > G Geography (General) H Social Sciences > HM Sociology H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform H Social Sciences > HV Social pathology. Social and public welfare
Departments:	Bayes Business School Bayes Business School > Faculty of Actuarial Science & Insurance
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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