Assessing interorganizational networks as a dimension of community capacity: illustrations from a community intervention to prevent lead poisoning.
Network analysis is often cited as a method for assessing collaboration among organizations as an indicator of community capacity. The purpose of this study was to (1) document patterns of collaboration in organizational networks related to lead poisoning prevention in a Native American community and (2) examine measurement issues in using organizational network analysis to assess community capacity. Interviews were conducted with representatives from 22 tribes, government agencies, schools, and community-based organizations in northeastern Oklahoma. Intensity, density, and reliability were assessed for several stages of collaboration. Intensity and density were greater for similar types of organizations than for the network as a whole and decreased as stage of collaboration increased. Network data were more reliable when responses were dichotomized than when intensities were compared. Mean reliability scores across two respondents from the same organization ranged from 60% to 90%. Results from network studies may help communities learn how to strengthen organizational networks to enhance community capacity.
Singer
Helen Harber
HH
Department of Behavioral Sciences and Health Education, Rollins School of Public Health.
Kegler
Michelle Crozier
MC
D019058:Community Networks; D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D003625:Data Collection / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000517:prevention & control; D006256:Hazardous Waste / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006266:Health Education / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006284:Health Plan Implementation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006285:Health Planning / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D007855:Lead Poisoning / Q000517:prevention & control*; D008432:Mathematical Computing; D020380:Needs Assessment / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D009825:Oklahoma; D012424:Rural Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data
D006256:Hazardous Waste