Simplified implementation of the Heckman estimator of the dynamic probit model and a comparison with alternative estimators

Abstract

This paper presents a convenient shortcut method for implementing the Heckman estimator of the dynamic random effects probit model using standard software. It then compares the three estimators proposed by Heckman, Orme and Wooldridge based on three alternative approximations, first in an empirical model for the probability of unemployment and then in a set of simple simulation experiments.