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Testing Becker's Theory of Positive Assortative Matching

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  • Aloysius Siow

Abstract

In a stochastic Becker marriage model (Choo and Siow), supermodularity of the match output function implies stochastic positive assortative matching (PAM): the equilibrium marriage matching distribution has all positive local log odds ratios or is totally positive of order 2 (TP2). The Choo-Siow model rationalizes the practice of studying PAM independent of population vectors and marriage rates and conditional on other spousal characteristics. Using white married couples in their 30s from the 2000 US Census, spousal educational matching generally obeyed TP2. Between 1970 and 2000, there was no general increase in PAM. There was increased homogamy in spousal education matching.

Suggested Citation

  • Aloysius Siow, 2015. "Testing Becker's Theory of Positive Assortative Matching," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 33(2), pages 409-441.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucp:jlabec:doi:10.1086/678496
    DOI: 10.1086/678496
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    JEL classification:

    • J1 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics
    • C51 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Construction and Estimation

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