 Unequal-cluster weighting in a cluster bootstrap

Unequal-cluster weighting in a cluster bootstrap must preserve the statistic's intended population target while resampling the independent groups. For group $j$, let $n_j$ be its observed size, $T_j$ its observation sum, and ${\overline{X}}_j=T_j/n_j$. Two distinct estimates areThe first weights groups by their numbers of observations; the second gives each group equal weight. If group size is related to group response, the corresponding population targets need not agree. For identically distributed independent groups with suitable finite moments, they correspond to $E(T)/E(n)$ and $E(T/n)$, respectively.

For each cluster bootstrap replicate, draw $K$ group slots with replacement and recompute the selected statistic, including its denominator. The Stata manual explicitly notes that unequal group sizes cause replicate row counts to vary; keeping a fixed original row denominator would therefore compute a different statistic.^[ref]

For an original two-group example, take $A=(0)$ and $B=(10,10,10)$. The original pooled sample mean is $7.5$, while the equally weighted group-mean estimate is $5$. The four ordered two-group draws $AA,AB,BA,BB$ have equal probability. Their pooled sample means are $0,7.5,7.5,10$, whereas their equally weighted group-mean estimates are $0,5,5,10$.

Consequently the conditional bootstrap expectation of the pooled estimate is $6.25$, not $7.5$. This bootstrap ratio bias with unequal cluster sizes is visible with only two observed groups: averaging a random ratio does not generally give the ratio of the averages. It is not a reason to substitute the equally weighted estimate, which changes the estimand, or a claim that every large-group bootstrap is invalid.

Resampling groups in proportion to $n_j$ and then retaining all their rows introduces an additional size preference; that design needs its own justification. Replicated group copies also need distinct identifiers when the fitted model uses those identifiers. The correct resampling unit, the target mean, and the statistic recomputed in each draw must all be specified.