Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/10419/119796
Year of Publication: 
2014
Series/Report no.: 
HEG Working Paper No. 14-01
Publisher: 
University of East Anglia, Health Economics Group (HEG), Norwich
Abstract: 
We propose a triple test to evaluate the usefulness of behavioral economics models for public health policy. Test 1 is whether the model provides reasonably new insights. Test 2 is on whether these have been properly applied to policy settings. Test 3 is whether they are corroborated by evidence. Where a test is not passed, this may point to directions for needed further research. We exemplify by considering the cases of social interactions models, self-control models and, in relation to health message framing, prospect theory; out of these, only a correctly applied prospect theory fully passes the tests at present.
Subjects: 
behavioral economics
nudges
peer effects
self-control
prospect theory
framing effects
JEL: 
B41
D04
I18
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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