Create Time Use Variable

Respondent activities are recorded as six-digit numbers (ACTIVITY). The first two digits correspond to a broad category, the middle two to a more detailed subcategory, and the final two to a specific activity within those categories. Users may select any combination of activities from the activity hierarchy to create time use variables.

The time of day filter allows users to restrict the time use variable currently being created to a particular range of time during the day. The default selection is all times, meaning that the times spent in each of the selected activities (given other filter selections) are added together regardless of when during the day the activities occurred. When a time of day filter is applied, only time spent in the activities (given other filter selections) during the time range specified is returned. For example, researchers may want to look at time spent between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on a specified set of activities.

Secondary activities occur at the same time as primary activities. Secondary activities available in the ATUS include child care (2003+), eating (2006-2008, 2014-2016) and drinking (2006-2008 only), and eldercare (2011+). By applying secondary activity filters, only time spent during the primary activities in which the secondary activity also occurred will be aggregated to create a time use variable. Secondary activity filters may not be applied together. Users who are unfamiliar with how the secondary activity filters work should consult the additional documentation provided.

The location filter (WHERE) allows users to restrict the time use variable currently being created to a particular set of places or modes of transportation. The default selection is all locations, meaning that the times spent in each of the selected activities (given other filter selections) are added together regardless of where the activities occurred. When a location filter is applied, only times spent in the activities (given other filter selections) and locations specified are added together.

The with whom filter allows users to restrict the time use variable currently being created to those that occurred alone or with specified others (see RELATEW). The default selection is no specifications, meaning that the times spent in each of the selected activities (given other filter selections) are added together regardless of who was present during the activities.

Name indicates what your variable will be called in your data file. Label is the label associated with the variable you created. Description is not delivered with your data file; it is an optional field that you may use to describe the variable in greater detail and to store relevant notes.