More information about MTUS who variables

Information about who is else present during an activity varies across datasets in the MTUS. The way the information is collected (and constructed) and the detail available across datasets vary in potentially important ways. Furthermore, the relationship between who variables is complex.

Collection of who information

• USA
  • In 1965, 1975, and 1998, respondents are asked to provide up to two people they were with during the activity.
  • In 1985 and in the ATUS (2003 forward), respondents are able to report more than two responses to the “who was with you” question.
  • In 1993 and 1995, who data was not collected. MTUS, however, constructs some who codes based on the activity the respondent reported performing.
• Spain
  Respondents report the present of other by means of a checkbox.
  • In 2009, Possible categories were: alone, spouse or partner, father/mother, children under 10 years old, other household members, other persons.
• United Kingdom
  Respondents report the present of other by means of a checkbox.
  • In 1983, possible categories were: alone, spouse, children, other relations, friends, people at work, others.
  • In 2000, possible categories were: alone, children up to 9 years old, children 10 to 14, other household members, other persons.

Who detail available

This information varies by dataset. For the most comprehensive and current information, see the who variable availability grid.

Relationships between who variables

1. Alone
2. Spouse/Partner
3. Child
4. Other adult
5. Animal (no longer available)