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The Fallibility of Comparison Groups

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  • Jean Grossman

    (Public/Private Ventures)

  • Joseph P. Tierney

    (Public/Private Ventures)

Abstract

This article presents evidence strengthening the argument against comparison group strategies given the current state of knowledge. The comparison group for this study was drawn explicitly recognizing the self-selection issues. It drew youths from similar sources matched on attitudes related to California Conservation Corps (CCC) participation not usually measured and collected information explicitly designed to improve the statistical modeling of participation. Yet, as always, whether a comparison group strategy works is an empirical question. One believes the results from such a study only if they basically conform to one's prior beliefs, otherwise the suitability of a comparison group is suspect.

Suggested Citation

  • Jean Grossman & Joseph P. Tierney, 1993. "The Fallibility of Comparison Groups," Evaluation Review, , vol. 17(5), pages 556-571, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:evarev:v:17:y:1993:i:5:p:556-571
    DOI: 10.1177/0193841X9301700505
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Catsiapis, George & Robinson, Chris, 1982. "Sample selection bias with multiple selection rules : An application to student aid grants," Journal of Econometrics, Elsevier, vol. 18(3), pages 351-368, April.
    2. James J. Heckman & V. Joseph Hotz & Marcelo Dabos, 1987. "Do We Need Experimental Data To Evaluate the Impact of Manpower Training On Earnings?," Evaluation Review, , vol. 11(4), pages 395-427, August.
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