Do the `working poor' stay poor? An analysis of low pay transitions in Italy*
利用意大利调查面板数据，分析低薪者脱离低薪的概率，发现初始条件内生化且真实状态依赖显著影响低薪持续性，个体特征影响有限。
This paper uses survey panel data to look at transition probabilities at the bottom of the Italian earnings distribution. The econometric analysis is characterized by a proper treatment of the initial conditions problem and by the investigation of genuine state dependence, the extent with which low pay probabilities depend upon the past experience of low pay other things equal. Results indicate that initial conditions are endogenous and that genuine state dependence can be relevant in determining low pay persistence. On the other hand, individual attributes are found to affect on transition probabilities, although to a limited extent. Copyright 2002 by Blackwell Publishing Ltd