Weighted Exponential Random Graph Model

The Weighted Exponential Random Graph Model (W-ERGM) extends the classic binary ERGM framework to networks whose edges carry quantitative values — such as frequency of contact, trade volume, or collaboration intensity. It models the entire valued-edge network as a probability distribution defined over all possible weighted graphs, enabling researchers to test whether structural patterns such as reciprocity, transitivity, or degree distribution arise beyond what chance alone would produce.