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Regression Discontinuity Designs in Economics

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David S. Lee
Thomas Lemieux

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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 examples drawn from the growing body of empirical research using RD.

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Paper provided by National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc in its series NBER Working Papers with number 14723.

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Date of creation: Feb 2009
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Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:14723

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Find related papers by JEL classification:
C1 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric and Statistical Methods: General
H0 - Public Economics - - General
I0 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - General
J0 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General

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Full references

Cited by:
(explanations, Please report citation or reference errors to , or , if you are the registered author of the cited work, log in to your RePEc Author Service profile, click on "citations" and make appropriate adjustments.)

  1. Carlos Dobkin & Fernando Ferreira, 2009. "Do School Entry Laws Affect Educational Attainment and Labor Market Outcomes?," NBER Working Papers 14945, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc. [Downloadable!] (restricted)
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