The role of social networks in the health behaviors and outcomes of the individual and the community. Social networks can have a positive or negative impact. For example, a negative outcome of social networks can be seen in the epidemic transmission of HIV in the United States in the late twentieth century through sexual contact networks. An example of a positive social network is the slowing of the transmission of this same disease within these same networks once its existence became known.

In addition, social networks are used in social epidemiology to conduct research because of the importance of the support from others to the health of the individual and the community. For example, the mental health of an individual depends a lot on the capacity of the individual to connect with others. The problems with autism have shown us that the "disconnection" with others creates difficulties in communication, and disintegration in a society that depends a lot on human interaction. In the context of these examples, let's start preparing this discussion on the importance of social networks in social epidemiology and public health by completing the following steps.

1. Defining the concept of social networks in epidemiology:

To expand on how social networks are defined and used in epidemiology, read the Internet article, "Networks and the Epidemiology of Infectious Disease." When reading this article, pay attention to the definition of social networks in epidemiology and the practical applications of the concept in epidemiology and in general in public health.

A) Write a summary in which you define in your own words the concept of social networks in epidemiology, and how you see the benefits of learning this for a public health practitioner.

2. Applying the concept of social networks in epidemiologic research:
Although the article above focused on infectious diseases, the concept of social networks applies to all type of health problems including, but not limited to, mental disorders, developmental disorders, substance abuse, et cetera. In this context, do the following to continue preparing this discussion.

A) Pick a topic in which you want to apply the concept of social networks, make a list of the different factors, or links, associated with the health topic that you chose.

B) After you identify as many links as possible, try to draw a graphic representation of your example of social network as presented on Page 3 of the article. Be sure that your graphic shows the links.

3. Discussion summary:

Write a summary in which you integrate the major concepts and applications of the concept of social networks in epidemiological research.

A) In this summary, be sure to include what you have learned in this discussion and also how you intend using these concepts in your daily practice of public health.