The recurrence of groups inhibits the information spreading under higher-order interactions

TL;DR

This paper investigates how recurrent group formations in face-to-face social interactions hinder information spread, especially under higher-order interactions, using a modified force-directed model to simulate and analyze these dynamics.

Contribution

It introduces an extended force-directed motion model incorporating similarity-based forces to reproduce recurrent group patterns and predict information spreading behaviors in face-to-face networks.

Findings

Recurrent triangular groups inhibit information spread.

Higher-order interactions amplify the inhibition effect.

The extended FDM model accurately predicts spreading dynamics.

Abstract

Modeling social systems as networks based on pairwise interactions between individuals offers valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying their dynamics. However, the majority of social interactions occur within groups of individuals, characterized by higher-order structures. The mechanisms driving group formation and the impact of higher-order interactions, which arise from group dynamics, on information spreading in face-to-face interaction networks remain insufficiently understood. In this study, we examine some representative human face-to-face interaction data and find the recurrent patterns of groups. Moreover, we extend the force-directed motion (FDM) model with the forces derived from similarity distances within a hidden space to reproduce the recurrent group patterns and many key properties of face-to-face interaction networks. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the FDM model effectively predicts information-spreading behaviors under higher-order interactions. Finally, our results reveal that the recurrence of triangular groups inhibits the spread of information in face-to-face interaction networks, and the higher-order interactions will make this phenomenon more pronounced. These findings represent a significant advancement in the understanding of group formation and may open new avenues for research into the effects of group interactions on information propagation processes.