Methodological Development

National Human Genome Research Institute

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

An over-arching goal of our research program is to develop methods to address challenges in network science that we encounter in our own research, many of which are pervasive in the field. For example, we developed methods for conducting a colored triad census and analyzing multi-layer networks (36). More recently, we proposed a novel framework that extends Kahn and Antonucci’s Convoy Model of Social Relations to consider interconnected convoys among a set of close others. The power of interconnected convoys lies in the ability to investigate questions centered around the structural features that arise from linked ego-centered networks, such as reciprocal exchange, shared partners, and unique supports. These structural features align more directly with interpersonal coping processes that we investigate in our ongoing studies. Given that the hallmark of our work is our multi-informant design, future efforts will aim to develop and apply methods for investigating coping using an interconnected convoy lens. Recently, our efforts have focused on creating scales that measure genomic literacy. Not only will these new instruments be available for the broader community, we will also integrate these measures in future studies involving genomic literacy, family health history, and risk dissemination. The Family Health History Literacy Scale Validation Project (NHGRI Protocol # IRB002193) was initiated during the current reporting period. The goal of this research is to develop a valid and reliable measure that assesses family health history knowledge, communication self-efficacy, and attitudes about family communication. Recruitment for the pilot phase of the study began in August of 2024. During the pilot phase, 1,122 participants consented and completed the study. Data from the pilot study was used to further refine the measure for the second phase of the study. Recruitment for the second phase study began in June of 2025 and is still open to recruitment. Currently, 3,007 participants have consented and completed the study. No data associated with this study has been published as of yet, due to recruitment being ongoing.