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Regression Discontinuity Designs Using Covariates

Author

Listed:
  • Sebastian Calonico

    (Columbia University)

  • Matias D. Cattaneo

    (Princeton University)

  • Max H. Farrell

    (University of Chicago)

  • Rocío Titiunik

    (Princeton University)

Abstract

We study regression discontinuity designs when covariates are included in the estimation. We examine local polynomial estimators that include discrete or continuous covariates in an additive separable way, but without imposing any parametric restrictions on the underlying population regression functions. We recommend a covariate-adjustment approach that retains consistency under intuitive conditions and characterize the potential for estimation and inference improvements. We also present new covariate-adjusted mean-squared error expansions and robust bias-corrected inference procedures, with heteroskedasticity-consistent and cluster-robust standard errors. We provide an empirical illustration and an extensive simulation study. All methods are implemented in R and Stata software packages.

Suggested Citation

  • Sebastian Calonico & Matias D. Cattaneo & Max H. Farrell & Rocío Titiunik, 2019. "Regression Discontinuity Designs Using Covariates," The Review of Economics and Statistics, MIT Press, vol. 101(3), pages 442-451, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:tpr:restat:v:101:y:2019:i:3:p:442-451
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Yoichi Arai & Hidehiko Ichimura, 2018. "Simultaneous selection of optimal bandwidths for the sharp regression discontinuity estimator," Quantitative Economics, Econometric Society, vol. 9(1), pages 441-482, March.
    2. Jasjeet S. Sekhon & Rocío Titiunik, 2017. "On Interpreting the Regression Discontinuity Design as a Local Experiment," Advances in Econometrics, in: Regression Discontinuity Designs, volume 38, pages 1-28, Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
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    5. Otávio Bartalotti & Quentin Brummet, 2017. "Regression Discontinuity Designs with Clustered Data," Advances in Econometrics, in: Regression Discontinuity Designs, volume 38, pages 383-420, Emerald Group Publishing Limited.
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