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Measurement Error in the Relationship Status of Same-Sex Couples in the 2009 American Community Survey
Measurement Error in the Relationship Status of Same-Sex Couples in the 2009 American Community Survey
In the American Community Survey, same-sex couples living together may describe their relationship as either "husband or wife" or "unmarried partner." Some of these couples report their relationship differently from others, despite living in the same objective conditions. Past literature finds that how same-sex couples define and report their relationship depends on both legal and sociological factors; as a result, far more same-sex couples report their relationship as "husband or wife" than are legally married. Using 2009 ACS 1-year internal data and logistic regression we test three hypotheses: same-sex couples are more likely to report as "husband or wife" (as opposed to "unmarried partner") when they (1) reside in a state recognizing same-sex marriage, (2) live with their own children, and (3) respond to the initial mailout form.
Others in Series
Working Paper
Acreage Administrative Records Data Research for the American Community Survey
This report contains results of research that led to an innovative approach to using administrative records on the American Community Survey.
Working Paper
2018 ACS Mail Materials Test Report
Learn about an evaluation of messaging in the 2018 ACS mail materials and recommendations for improving the messaging.
Working Paper
Reducing Response Burden in the ACS: Proceedings of a Workshop
Learn more about ways to reduce respondent burden on the ACS.
Page Last Revised - October 8, 2021
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