Widmer, E.D., La Farga, L.-A. (1999). Boundedness and Connectivity of Contemporary Families: A case study. Connections, vol. 22, n°2, pp. 30-36.
We present a rationale for considering significant family units as open low-density ego networks rather than as small close knit groups. Using a case study approach, we show that individuals are likely to have significant family members who are not strongly connected to each other, and whose own significant family members differ. However, based on relationships among parents and children, family networks follow well known sociometric tendencies such as reciprocity and transitivity of choices. We further underline some implications of our findings for family research.