Term: Likelihood Ratio Test (LRT)

Glossary Definition

Last Updated: 2007-10-20

Definition:

As the name implies, the likelihood ratio is a ratio of two likelihoods. It is widely used as a test statistic, perhaps especially for relations among categorical variables displayed in contingency tables. The smaller the LR, the stronger the relationship. This is because (in comparison with the chi-square method) with the LR we attempt to accept a particular model, not reject a null hypothesis.

Related terms 

• Null Hypothesis

References 

• Lix L, Yogendran M, Burchill C, Metge C, McKeen N, Moore D, Bond R. Defining and Validating Chronic Diseases: An Administrative Data Approach. Winnipeg, MB: Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2006. [Report] [Summary] (View)

Term used in 

• Finlayson GS, Forget E, Ekuma O, Derksen S, Bond R, Martens P, De Coster C. Allocating Funds for Healthcare in Manitoba Regional Health Authorities: A First Step--Population-Based Funding. Manitoba Centre for Health Policy, 2007. [Report] [Summary] (View)