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Behavioral spillovers

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  • Bonev, Petyo

Abstract

What is a behavioral spillover? How can a spillover be uncovered from the data? What is the precise link between the underlying psychological theory of a spillover and the econometric assumptions which are necessary to estimate it? This paper draws on recent advancements in causal inference, behavioral economics, psychology, and neuroscience to develop a framework for the causal evaluation and interpretation of behavioral spillovers. A novel empirical research design is suggested and a guide for the empirical researcher is developed. Using this guide, the paper reevaluates a large number of existing empirical results and suggests an agenda for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Bonev, Petyo, 2025. "Behavioral spillovers," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 229(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:229:y:2025:i:c:s0167268124004712
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2024.106857
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Behavioral spillovers; Policy evaluation; Moral licensing; Self-perception theory; Cognitive dissonance theory; Foot-in-the-door effect;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • C26 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Instrumental Variables (IV) Estimation
    • C9 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments
    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • D04 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Policy: Formulation; Implementation; Evaluation
    • Q58 - Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics; Environmental and Ecological Economics - - Environmental Economics - - - Environmental Economics: Government Policy

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