Introduction to Optimal Matching Analysis

Introduction to Optimal Matching Analysis: This paper provides an introduction to a new statistical technique for describing sequences: Optimal Matching Analysis (OMA). Borrowed from biology, this technique is based on rather simple principles that can be adapted to suit the theoretical requirements of different analyses. Since OMA is not based on any causal assumptions, it is particularly well-adapted for sociologists who retemporalize action by analyzing it as a process. Two applications of Optimal Matching to time-use data are proposed to demonstrate its flexibility & also its sociological interest. Tables, Figures, References. Adapted from the source document.