Tract segregation

Date and country of first publication

2004
United States

Definition

Tract segregation refers to the spatial separation or clustering of different demographic groups within specific geographic areas known as census tracts. Census tracts are small, relatively homogenous geographic units defined by national statistical agencies for the purpose of collecting and organizing demographic data.

Tract segregation is often analyzed using quantitative measures to assess the extent to which different demographic groups, such as racial or ethnic groups, are spatially concentrated or dispersed within urban areas. These measures include indices like the Dissimilarity Index, the Index of Dissimilarity, and the Gini coefficient.

Key aspects of tract segregation in urban geography include:

Homogeneity: High levels of segregation are indicated when census tracts are predominantly inhabited by one demographic group, with little diversity within the area.

Clustering: Segregated groups tend to cluster together within census tracts, resulting in areas with high concentrations of specific demographic populations.

Spatial Patterns: Tract segregation may exhibit distinct spatial patterns within urban areas, with segregated groups occupying certain neighborhoods, districts, or regions.

Social and Economic Implications: Segregation within census tracts can have significant social and economic implications, including disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and public services.

Temporal Changes: Tract segregation is not static and may change over time due to factors such as migration, urban development, and changes in public policies.

Understanding tract segregation in urban geography is essential for analyzing patterns of residential segregation, identifying areas of social and economic inequality, and informing policies and interventions aimed at promoting social integration, equity, and inclusion within cities.

Synonyms

The following terms are synonymous with tract segregation:

tract level segregation.

References and literature addressing this segregation form under these synonymous terms can be found below.

Related segregation forms

Tract segregation is frequently discussed in the literature with the following segregation forms:

residential segregation, social segregation, ethnic segregation, class segregation, racial segregation, racial residential segregation, multiracial segregation

This visualization is based on the study The Multidisciplinary Landscape of Segregation Research.

For the complete network of interrelated segregation forms, please refer to:

• First year of publication

• Louvain clusters

• Betweenness centrality

• Disciplines in which segregation forms first emerged (Scopus database).

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Tract segregation appears in the following literature

Ellis M., Wright R., Parks V. (2004). Work together, live apart? Geographies of racial and ethnic segregation at home and at work. Annals of the Association of American Geographers, 94(3), 620-637. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-8306.2004.00417.x

Fischer C.S., Stockmayer G., Stiles J., Hout M. (2004). Distinguishing the geographic levels and social dimensions of U.S. metropolitan segregation, 1960 2000. Demography, 41(1), 37-59. Duke University Press.https://doi.org/10.1353/dem.2004.0002

Bischoff K. (2008). School district fragmentation and racial residential segregation: How do boundaries matter?. Urban Affairs Review, 44(2), 182-217. https://doi.org/10.1177/1078087408320651