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Statistical unit

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Statistical unit  (STATISTICAL unit)


A fundamental statistical unit1 used in demography is the individual2 or person2 (the term head2 (cf. 221-6) has also been employed, but this usage is now largely out of date). The household3 is a socio-economic unit, consisting of individuals who live together. Statistical definitions of the household vary. According to the definition which has been recommended as an international standard a household consists of a group of individuals who share living quarters and their principal meals. The term hearth3 has been used in the past, showing that in the past members of the household used to share the same fire. Classifications of households also vary between different countries and different enquiries. In order to facilitate comparative studies the internationally recommended classification involves the distinction of two types: private households4 or family households4 and institutional households5 or non-family households5 which consist of people living in certain institutions. An individual living by himself is considered to be a one-person household6 for statistical purposes. A boarder7 is a person other than a domestic servant, who is unrelated to other members of the household and who habitually takes his meals with the household. A lodger8, on the other hand, does not habitually take his meals with the household. These two categories may or may not be included in the household for statistical purposes.

  • 8. lodger n. — in the United States of America this term is used to include both boarders and lodgers as defined above.


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