dynamical system method
Definition
Dynamical system method is a mathematical approach that models a system's dynamic evolution by formulating temporal relations between individuals' behaviors across time points, typically expressed through ordinary differential equations or Boolean functions. In group settings, the method infers social influence by examining how one group member's behavior at a current time point relates to another member's behavior at a subsequent time point, allowing for the simultaneous detection of both assimilative (positive) and repulsive (negative) social influence patterns within the same network. The method can be applied to empirical longitudinal behavioral data to identify group-specific control strategies that direct groups toward desired behavioral states without requiring manipulation of social ties.
Sources: Yang et al. (2024)
Related Terms
Applications
Dynamical System Method and Social Influence
The dynamical system method infers social influence by examining temporal relations between group members' behaviors, determining whether influence is assimilative or repulsive based on the direction and sign of these relations. The dynamical system method can accommodate the simultaneous manifestation of both assimilative and repulsive social influences within the same group.
Sources: Yang et al. (2024)
Dynamical System Method and Behavior Change
The dynamical system method models temporal changes in group members' behavior by representing how each person's current behavior is an outcome of their own and other group members' previous behavior(s), enabling researchers to understand and predict how behavior change unfolds over time in group contexts. The method can be applied to longitudinal behavioral data to infer social influence processes and develop control strategies that promote desired behavior change.
Sources: Yang et al. (2024)
Dynamical System Method and Network-based Interventions
The dynamical system method provides a framework for designing network-based interventions and group management strategies that can steer groups toward desired behavioral states. These strategies can direct groups toward desired outcomes without requiring changes to the underlying social network structure.
Sources: Yang et al. (2024)
