2: Social Network Analysis (SNA) for Disinformation

Social network analysis (SNA) is a technique used to study the structure of relationships within networks. This chapter introduces SNA concepts and explains how they apply to the spread of disinformation. By using metrics such as centrality (influence), clustering (grouping) and bridging (connecting groups), SNA enables researchers to identify patterns and pathways through which disinformation spreads and gains traction in various online communities. This chapter also outlines the types of research questions SNA can help to answer and examples from the authors’ recent research on social media platforms. This chapter also provides insight into the modern tools and software applications that enable the conduct of SNA. In particular, this chapter introduces the key features of NodeXL Pro, Gephi and SocNetV and provides a comparison of the types of analysis each can perform.