Rank Tests for Bivariate Symmetry

Abstract

The problem is considered of testing symmetry of a bivariate distribution $\mathscr{L}(X, Y)$ against "asymmetry towards high $X$-values," subject to the restriction of invariance under the transformations $(x_i, y_i) \mapsto (g(x_i), g(y_i)) (1 \leq i \leq n)$ for increasing bijections $g$. This invariance restriction prohibits the common reduction to the differences $x_i - y_i$. The intuitive concept of "asymmetry towards high $X$-values" is approached in several ways, and a mathematical formulation for this concept is proposed. Most powerful and locally most powerful invariant similar tests against certain subalternatives are characterized by means of a Hoeffding formula. Asymptotic normality and consistency results are obtained for appropriate linear rank tests.