"The values of the unmet basic needs is not the mean but the point on the wealth index where it changes in level. While the mean wealth index value of each of the other assets could be used, we use the median value which is more representative in a sample since it is less affected by outliers. If the distribution is approximately normal, there is little difference between the mean and the median. In a country where almost all have TVs, the mean value of the index for those with TVs will be still be very low. Using the mean would have a different value for the CWI but I suspect not very different. To do so, would mean that the baseline values (Vietnam, 2000) would also need to be redone."

Regards,
Shea