Beyond weak ties in prison: An investigation of core support networks of incarcerated persons

Authors

• Siyun Peng, University of South FloridaFollow
• Martha Tillson, University of KentuckyFollow
• Maria Rockett, University of Kentucky
• Marisa Booty, University of KentuckyFollow
• Carrie B. Oser, University of KentuckyFollow

Abstract

Tie formation has been a core interest of network researchers. However, most existing research on tie formation in prisons has focused on weak ties, assuming that a core network approach is less applicable within total institutions such as prisons. Drawing on egocentric network data from 389 incarcerated individuals and 1352 named network members, this study demonstrates that relationships between incarcerated persons can be examined using a core support network framework. We find that about 20 % of participants include at least one incarcerated peer in their core support networks, with these ties providing both practical and emotional support comparable to that offered by other core support network members. These findings underscore the critical role that peer relationships play in coping with the stresses of incarceration. This study also offers a rare opportunity to test tie formation theories in a total institution context. Specifically, our results support theories of contact opportunities, unmet social needs, and experiential homophily in shaping decisions to include at least one incarcerated peer in core support networks. By examining the dynamics of core support networks during incarceration, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of resilience and trust formation in highly constrained, high-stress environments.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2026

Notes/Citation Information

0378-8733/© 2025 Elsevier B.V. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.socnet.2025.12.004

Funding Information

This research was supported by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) under award number R01-DA048876 (PI: Oser) and R36DA061317 (PI: Booty). The contents of this publication are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not represent the official views of NIDA or the Kentucky Department of Corrections. We would like to thank the participants in the GATE study as well as the Kentucky Department of Corrections for their collaboration.

Repository Citation

Peng, Siyun; Tillson, Martha; Rockett, Maria; Booty, Marisa; and Oser, Carrie B., "Beyond weak ties in prison: An investigation of core support networks of incarcerated persons" (2026). Behavioral Science Faculty Publications. 108.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/behavsci_facpub/108