Sociometry is one of the most used diagnostic procedures for measuring interpersonal relationships in a group. Sociometry, according to the definition of its creator Moreno, is an empirical science that quantitatively and qualitatively evaluates interpersonal relationships and experiences associated with the roles that people play in the socio-emotional structure of their group. The essence of the sociometric method lies in the selection of other members of the group by members of the group for joint activities in any given conditions or a specific situation.
Instructions
Step 1
The choice of sociometric criterion, i.e. a question asked to all members of the studied group in order to clarify the relationship between them.
The criterion should be an indicator, an indicator of this relationship. For example: "With whom of your classmates would you like to do practice together?" The criterion should contain a suggestion of choice or rejection and should be formulated so that the reactions of the group members show their emotional attitude.
Step 2
The choice of the procedure for conducting sociometry.
Two options are possible here. In the first, the respondent chooses as many persons as he considers necessary.
In the second case, the respondent chooses as many persons as agreed in advance.
For a group of 20 people, for example, it is recommended to limit the number of elections to 4.
Step 3
Drawing up a sociometric questionnaire (card) for collecting information.
It should contain a clear indication of how to fill out the card (if necessary), restriction on choice and sociometric questions. Sometimes the card will summarize the purpose of the study.
Step 4
Processing of the received data.
First, the number of positive and negative choices is calculated, as well as the number of mutual choices for each member of the group. Further, depending on the purpose of the study, various personal and group indices are calculated that characterize the system of relationships in the group.
For example, you can calculate the positive sociometric status C of any particular member of the group:
C = the number of positive choices received by a member of the group / N-1, where N = the size of the group. The closer C is to one, the better the attitude of the group members to this representative. Or the group index - the reciprocity index G.
G = number of reciprocal positive ties / N * (N-1), where N = group size. The closer G is to one, the higher the cohesion of the group. In large groups of 25-35 people, G = 0, 20-0, 25 should be considered satisfactory.
