An archaeological indicator of matrilocal versus patrilocal residence

American Antiquity • Vol/Iss. 38 • Published In 1973 • Pages: 177-182 •

By Ember, Melvin

Abstract

The study suggests an archaeological indicator of matrilocal versus patrilocal residence. The cross-cultural samples suggest that matrilocal versus patrilocal residence can be simply and accurately predicted from the living floor area of the average house in the society.

Samples
Sample Used	Coded Data	Comment
Ethnographic Reports
Ethnographic Atlas (EA)

Hypotheses (1)
Hypothesis	Supported
Since in societies with sororal polygyny co-wives live together in the same house, it should also be true that sisters find it easier to live together when they are married to different men in matrilocal societies. I expected houses in matrilocal societies to have a larger living floor area than houses in patrilocal societies (177)	Supported

Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: mas Jessie Cohen

An archaeological indicator of matrilocal versus patrilocal residence

American Antiquity • Vol/Iss. 38 • Published In 1973 • Pages: 177-182 • Cite

By Ember, Melvin

Abstract

Samples

Hypotheses (1)

American Antiquity • Vol/Iss. 38 • Published In 1973 • Pages: 177-182 •