A measure of interrelationship for overlapping groups

A coefficient of interrelationship between overlapping groups that avoids indeterminacies inherent in the construction of fourfold tables for such purposes and, at the same time, is relatively insensitive to the absolute magnitude of marginal totals of fourfold tables, is developed. Under assumptions that are consistent with the objectives of organizational analysis, this coefficient is shown to be equivalent to a product-moment correlation coefficient. The advantages and limitations of this coefficient are pointed out. A numerical example giving computational procedures is presented.This measure was developed in connection with a study made by Dorothy C. Adkins (1). Her influence in the development was felt in many ways. The article was prepared while the author was employed at The University of North Carolina.