Economic Differentials Index

Economic Differentials Index. The Economic Differentials Index is a seven-categorical scale (values -2 to +4) of intergroup differentials in economic status and positions derived from codings of six dimensions (i.e. ecdifx1 to ecdifx6). Economic differentials are equivalent to economic inequalities but are not necessarily the result of deliberate discrimination. -2 Advantaged 3 or more checked advantages, -1 Some advantages Only 1 or two checked advantages, 0 No socially significant differences A "socially significant" difference is one that is widely seen, within the minority, and/or the dominant group, as an important distinguishing trait of the group, 1 Slight differentials There are socially significant differences between the minority and the dominant group on one or two of the specified qualities.(one or two components checked), 2 Substantial differentials There are socially significant differences with respect to three specified qualities, 3 Major differentials There are socially significant differences with respect to four specified qualities, 4 Extreme differentials There are socially significant differences with respect to five or six specified qualities, 99 No basis for judging