Variation and Change in Extended Networks

    19 February 2026

    LISS 2025. Authors: Bas Hofstra (Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen – Faculteit der Sociale Wetenschappen), Rense Corten (Universiteit Utrecht – Faculteit der Sociale Wetenschappen), Beate Völker (Vrije Universiteit – Faculteit der Sociale en Geesteswetenschappen)

    We propose adding novel items to the LISS panel twice to measure (change in) extended networks that include both strong and weak ties. We apply a relatively new, yet well-established instrument: the network scale-up method (NSUM). Combined with the LISS panel, this offers unique possibilities to study causes and consequences of extended network size and its homogeneity to illuminate the social fabric of the Netherlands.

    Picture by Alex Shuper For Unsplash+