Browse IFS
Publication types
cemmap Working Papers
March 2013 CWP10/13
Article
What do instrumental variable models deliver with discrete dependent variables?
Type: cemmap Working Papers
JEL classification: C10, C14, C50, C51
Keywords: discrete endogenous variables; endogeneity; incomplete models; instrumental variables; set identification, structual econometrics

We study models with discrete endogenous variables and compare the use of two stage least squares (2SLS) in a linear probability model with bounds analysis using a nonparametric instrumental variable model.

2SLS has the advantage of providing an easy to compute point estimator of a slope coefficient which can be interpreted as a local average treatment effect (LATE). However, the 2SLS estimator does not measure the value of other useful treatment effect parameters without invoking untenable restrictions.

The nonparametric instrumental variable (IV) model has the advantage of being weakly restrictive, so more generally applicable, but it usually delivers set identification. Nonetheless it can be used to consistently estimate bounds on many parameters of interest including, for example, average treatment effects. We illustrate using data from Angrist & Evans (1998) and study the effect of family size on female employment.

Download full version (PDF 769 KB)

Search

Title (or part of title)
Author surname (or part of surname)