Definitions
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 Tie
All definitions
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A "tie" is a dyadic, interpersonal relationship between individuals (Granovetter, 1973). The concept is fundamental to an understanding of various theories that inform analysis of social networks and how they can affect individuals' career opportunities.
The distinction between weak and strong ties underpins the concept of tie strength, as presented by Granovetter (1973) in "The strength of weak ties." He introduces tie strength as a way to link micro and macro levels of sociological theory. Tie strength Granovetter writes that the strength of an interpersonal tie "probably" refers to a combination of "the amount of time, the emotional intensity, the intimacy (mutual confiding), and the reciprocal services which characterize the tie." Further, he believes that most individuals have a rough intuitive idea as to whether a particular tie (for them) is strong, weak or absent. Ties can also be negative as well as symmetric versus asymmetric. His seminal 1973 paper presenting his weak-tie theory focuses only on positive ties, concluding that – despite the purported positive roles of strong ties for individuals – weak ties are seen as "indispensable to individuals' opportunities and to their integration into communities" (Granovetter, 1973, p. 1378). His argument is that strong ties breed cohesion within small, well-defined groups, while weak ties create shorter paths to transmission possibilities (e.g. career opportunities) because they function as shortest-point bridges to individuals and opportunities outside of individuals' strong-tie networks. Related terms: References Granovetter, M. (1973). The strength of weak ties. American Journal of Sociology, 6, 1360-80. Read a practice exam essay in response to the question:
"What are the key features of a relationship approach to career development? How might social and developmental networks benefit individuals in managing their careers?" Exam essay practice answer |
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