psychiatric cluster sampling
Sampling method where groups (clusters) are randomly selected first, then all individuals within selected clusters are studied.
Full Definition
A probability sampling technique commonly used in psychiatric epidemiology where the population is divided into naturally occurring groups (clusters) such as schools, neighborhoods, or healthcare facilities, and a random sample of these clusters is selected for complete enumeration. This method is particularly useful in psychiatric epidemiology when studying geographically dispersed populations or when individual-level sampling frames are unavailable. While more cost-effective than simple random sampling, cluster sampling requires larger sample sizes and special statistical techniques to account for intra-cluster correlation in psychiatric outcomes.
Usage
Usage note: Ensure proper discussion of design effects and intra-cluster correlation when editing papers using this methodology.
In Context
- "The national mental health survey employed psychiatric cluster sampling with schools as the primary sampling units." — epidemiological survey methodology
- "Psychiatric cluster sampling reduced fieldwork costs but required adjustment for design effects in the analysis." — survey methodology paper