Title

Regression Discontinuity Designs in Economics

Author(s)

David S. Lee David Lee (Princeton University and NBER)

Thomas Lemieux Thomas Lemieux (University of British Columbia and NBER)

Abstract

This paper provides an introduction and "user guide" to Regression Discontinuity (RD) designs for empirical researchers. It presents the basic theory behind the research design, details when RD is likely to be valid or invalid given economic incentives, explains why it is considered a "quasi-experimental" design, and summarizes different ways (with their advantages and disadvantages) of estimating RD designs and the limitations of interpreting these estimates. Concepts are discussed using using examples drawn from the growing body of empirical research using RD.

Creation Date

2009-02

Section URL ID

IRS

Paper Number

548

URL

https://dataspace.princeton.edu/bitstream/88435/dsp015138jd866/1/548.pdf

File Function

Jel

C010, C600, H300

Keyword(s)

Regression Discontinuity, research design, incentives

Suppress

false

Series

1