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Heterogeneous peer effects in education

Author

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  • Eleonora Patacchini

    (Cornell University)

  • Edoardo Rainone

    (Banca d'Italia)

  • Yves Zenou

    (Stockholm University)

Abstract

We investigate whether, how, and why individual education attainment depends on the educational attainment of schoolmates. Specifically, using longitudinal data on students and their friends during the school years in a nationally representative set of US schools, we consider the impact of different types of peers on education outcomes. We find that there are strong and persistent peer effects in education, but peers tend to be influential in the long run only when their friendships last more than one year. This evidence is consistent with a network model where convergence of preferences and the emergence of social norms among peers require long-term interactions.

Suggested Citation

  • Eleonora Patacchini & Edoardo Rainone & Yves Zenou, 2016. "Heterogeneous peer effects in education," Temi di discussione (Economic working papers) 1048, Bank of Italy, Economic Research and International Relations Area.
    • Handle: RePEc:bdi:wptemi:td_1048_16
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    spatial autoregressive model; heterogeneous spillovers; 2SLS estimation; Bayesian estimation; education;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C31 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models; Quantile Regressions; Social Interaction Models
    • D85 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Network Formation
    • Z13 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics - - - Economic Sociology; Economic Anthropology; Language; Social and Economic Stratification

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