cluster analysis

a method of multivariate data analysis in which individuals or units are placed into distinct subgroups based on their strong similarity with regard to specific attributes. For example, one might use cluster analysis to form groups of individual children on the basis of their levels of anxiety, aggression, delinquency, and cognitive difficulties so as to identify useful typologies that could increase understanding of co-occurring mental disorders and lead to more appropriate treatments for specific individuals. There are several different forms of cluster analysis—including hierarchical clustering and latent class analysis—and each is appropriate for use with different types of data. Results of a cluster analysis often are presented in a dendrogram. Also called clustering.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

January 30th 2025

electronarcosis

n. a form of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in which the amount of electricity, the duration of the shock, or both is sufficient to generate the tonic phase of a seizure but either limits or prevents the clonic phase. Electronarcosis is a generally less effective alternative to standard ECT and is more likely to cause side effects. The technique has also been used to induce relaxation and sleep. See electrosleep therapy.