Census 2000 Coverage Analysis Using Demographic Methods

Arjun Adlakha, U.S. Census Bureau
Gregory Robinson, U.S. Census Bureau
Kirsten West, U.S. Census Bureau
Antonio Bruce, U.S. Census Bureau

In this paper we expand the analysis of Census 2000 coverage of young children using demographic analysis techniques. We look at the coverage differentials for specific race and origin groups (e.g., Blacks, Hispanics, and Non-Hispanic Whites) at the national level, for regions, and for selected States (given size thresholds). What are the similarities or differences in coverage of Black and Hispanic children? Do the patterns vary geographically? Do demographic indicators for Non-Hispanic Whites show much lower net undercounts? Are these results consistent with the differentials measured heretofore only by survey-based estimates (e.g. PES in 1990, A.C.E. in 2000)? There are, however, certain difficulties in making demographic coverage estimates by characteristics such as race and origin. These are elaborated in the paper so that the user is aware of the deficiencies that may be present in the estimates.