Download This PaperAn Introduction to Audit Studies in the Social Sciences
Gaddis, S. Michael. 2017. “An Introduction to Audit Studies in the Social Sciences.” In Audit Studies: Behind the Scenes with Theory, Method, and Nuance, edited by S. M. Gaddis, Springer.
71 Pages Posted: 24 Aug 2017
Date Written: August 1, 2017
Abstract
An audit study is a specific type of field experiment primarily used to test for discriminatory behavior when survey and interview questions induce social desirability bias. In this chapter, I first review the language and definitions related to audit studies and encourage adoption of a common language. I then discuss why researchers use the audit method as well as when researchers can and should use this method. Next, I give an overview of the history of audit studies, focusing on major developments and changes in the overall body of work. Finally, I discuss the limitations of correspondence audits and provide some thoughts on future directions.
Keywords: Audit Studies, Correspondence Audits, Discrimination, Field Experiments
JEL Classification: C90, C91, C93, C18, J70, J71
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