ABSTRACT
Collecting data on connected egocentric networks can be done by taking a snowball sample which belongs to the family of ascending sampling strategies. Collecting data on connected egocentric networks allows researchers to check for another attribute of data quality: the validity of information egos provide about their alters. Investigations on network topologies use concepts from graph theory. The homophily seems to be an important factor when focusing on leisure and emotionally important networks. Collecting information on specific parts of personal networks can be done by employing the name generator technique, which uses respondents' horizons in terms of social contacts. The egocentric network approach and snowball sampling are both known to include various sources of bias. Several arrangements are employed to reduce these biases and increase response rates. Networks of leisure and emotionally important contacts are usually clustered in egos' closer spatial environment.
