The Heider balance and the looking-glass self: modelling dynamics of social relations

Sci Rep. 2019 Aug 1;9(1):11202. doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-47697-1.

Abstract

We consider the dynamics of interpersonal relations which leads to balanced states in a fully connected network. Here this approach is applied to directed networks with asymmetric relations, and it is generalized to include self-evaluation of actors, according to the 'looking-glass self' theory. A new index of self-acceptance is proposed: the relation of an actor to him/herself is positive, if the majority of his/her positive relations to others are reciprocated. Sets of stable configurations of relations are obtained under the dynamics, where the self-evaluation of some actors is negative. Within each set all configurations have the same structure.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't