Multiplicity Sampling

Multiplicity sampling is a probability sampling technique that is used to enhance an existing sampling frame by adding elements through a form of network sampling. It is especially useful when surveying for rare attributes (e.g. rare hereditary diseases).

In sample surveys, population elements are linked to units in the sampling frame, or frame units. For example, persons can be linked to a specific household by familial relationship among persons residing in the same housing unit. A counting rule identifies the linkage between population elements and frame units. In most surveys, population elements are linked to one and only one frame unit, and thus there is a one-to-one correspondence of element to unit. For multiplicity sampling, a counting rule is established that defines the linkage between population ...