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Spatial Indices of Segregation

Department of Geography, U-148, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-2148, USA

Segregation is commonly measured by means of an index of dissimilarity. A recent 'boundary modified' version of the index was formulated. It was based upon the concept that segregation is a separation created by spatial structure imposed upon the social space and thus interaction between racial groups is limited. The index takes into account one of the spatial etements—contiguity—but ignores the others. This paper argues that the length of the common boundary between two areal units and the shape of the areal units are important spatial components in determining segregation. Thus, a family of segregation indices is derived by incorporating these spatial components and can be applied to various spatial configurations. One of the indices possesses a distinctive property which is useful for comparing segregation levels in regions of various scales.

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				R. Johnston, M. Poulsen, and J. Forrest Ethnic and Racial Segregation in U.S. Metropolitan Areas, 1980-2000: The Dimensions of Segregation Revisited Urban Affairs Review, March 1, 2007; 42(4): 479 - 504. [Abstract] [PDF]