The Social Networks Inventory

Abstract

The literature on the social atom construct has a sound theoreticalfoundation emerging from Moreno's theory of spontaneity but is psychometrically limited. Most versions of the social atom test are ambiguous, nonstandardized, and difficult to interpret. Although the range of definition is varied, the basic difficulty with many versions of the social atom test is absence of measurement organization, normative data, and congruent test design. A revised retitled version of the social atom test, the Social Networks Inventory (SNI), consistent with Moreno 's theory of interpersonal networks, is addressed. Information gained from the SNI is useful in establishing task and emotional roles of group members and in determining group objectives. Directions regarding the test's administration and scoring procedures, along with evidence of reliability and validity are presented. Its use as a research and clinical tool is discussed.