A Social Network Analysis of Alcohol-Impaired Drivers in Maryland: An Egocentric Approach

This study examined the personal, household, and social structural attributes of alcohol-impaired drivers in Maryland. The study used an egocentric approach of social network analysis. This approach concentrated on specific actors (alcohol-impaired drivers), called egos, and those with whom the actors interact, called alters. In sum, egos and alters were similar in many aspects of their driving, drinking behavior and background. They influenced each other mostly in positive ways. The size of social networks affected the context of drinking behavior and the number of traffic violations. Receiving citations did show some deterrent effect. Thus, there are implications for intervention programs.