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Does drinking impair college performance? Evidence from a regression discontinuity approach

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  • Carrell, Scott E.
  • Hoekstra, Mark
  • West, James E.

Abstract

This paper examines the effect of alcohol consumption on student achievement. To do so, we exploit the discontinuity in drinking at age 21 at a college in which the minimum legal drinking age is strictly enforced. We find that drinking causes significant reductions in academic performance, particularly for the highest-performing students. This suggests that the negative consequences of alcohol consumption extend beyond the narrow segment of the population at risk of more severe, low-frequency, outcomes.

Suggested Citation

  • Carrell, Scott E. & Hoekstra, Mark & West, James E., 2011. "Does drinking impair college performance? Evidence from a regression discontinuity approach," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 95(1), pages 54-62.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:pubeco:v:95:y:2011:i:1:p:54-62
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jpubeco.2010.08.008
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Public health; Education;

    JEL classification:

    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health
    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education

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