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Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/45788
Testing reciprocity in social interactions: A comparison between the Directional consistency and Skew symmetry statistics
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In the present work we focus on two indices that quantify directionality and skew-symmetrical patterns in social interactions as measures of social reciprocity: the Directional consistency (DC) and Skew symmetry indices. Although both indices enable researchers to describe social groups, most studies require statistical inferential tests. The main aims of the present study are: firstly, to propose an overall statistical technique for testing null hypotheses regarding social reciprocity in behavioral studies, using the DC and Skew symmetry statistics (Φ) at group level; and secondly, to compare both statistics in order to allow researchers to choose the optimal measure depending on the conditions. In order to allow researchers to make statistical decisions, statistical significance for both statistics has been estimated by means of a Monte Carlo simulation. Furthermore, this study will enable researchers to choose the optimal observational conditions for carrying out their research, as the power of the statistical tests has been estimated.
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LEIVA UREÑA, David, SOLANAS PÉREZ, Antonio and SALAFRANCA I COSIALLS, Lluís. Testing reciprocity in social interactions: A comparison between the Directional consistency and Skew symmetry statistics. Behavior Research Methods. 2008. Vol. 40, num. 2, pags. 626-634. ISSN 1554-351X. [consulted: 9 of October of 2026]. Available at: https://hdl.handle.net/2445/45788