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The Trade-Off between Flexibility and Robustness in Instrumental Variables Analysis

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  • Ben Deaner

Abstract

In additive instrumental variables models, the robustness to some failure of instrumental validity or additive separability depends on the strength of a priori restrictions on the structural relationship between outcomes and treatments. I provide theoretical analysis of the problem, discuss the implications for empirical practice, and demonstrate with a numerical study calibrated on real-world data.

Suggested Citation

  • Ben Deaner, 2025. "The Trade-Off between Flexibility and Robustness in Instrumental Variables Analysis," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 115(11), pages 3975-3998, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aecrev:v:115:y:2025:i:11:p:3975-98
    DOI: 10.1257/aer.20231765
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Gordon B. Dahl & Lance Lochner, 2012. "The Impact of Family Income on Child Achievement: Evidence from the Earned Income Tax Credit," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 102(5), pages 1927-1956, August.
    2. Hu, Yingyao & Shiu, Ji-Liang, 2018. "Nonparametric Identification Using Instrumental Variables: Sufficient Conditions For Completeness," Econometric Theory, Cambridge University Press, vol. 34(3), pages 659-693, June.
    3. Joel L. Horowitz, 2011. "Applied Nonparametric Instrumental Variables Estimation," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 79(2), pages 347-394, March.
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C26 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Instrumental Variables (IV) Estimation
    • G51 - Financial Economics - - Household Finance - - - Household Savings, Borrowing, Debt, and Wealth
    • H24 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Personal Income and Other Nonbusiness Taxes and Subsidies
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth

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