Lauren QU

Lauren QU

Irrational Economics Student

Posts by Collection

portfolio

publications

talks

Dissertation

Published:

Optimal divorce cost: a commitment device at the end but a barrier at the beginning

Reading Journal

Published:

to learn how to avoid being deceived by the economists

The Impact of Housing Prices on Family Stability in China

Published:

This research investigates how changes in housing prices influence divorce rates, using a policy shift in China as a natural experiment. The study employs a Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD) based on a 2010 policy that reduced taxes and down payments for small housing units (≤ 90m²). Results indicate that the policy indirectly affected divorce rates through its impact on housing prices. Although the policy increased housing wealth, it introduced new dynamics in marital stability. The analysis suggests that macroeconomic conditions, such as housing prices, play a significant role in marital decisions.Proposal Proposal Slides Empirical Results Slides

Soda Tax, Health Outcomes and Taxation Analysis in Mexico (Joint Work with Oscar Galvez-Soriano and George Chou)

Published:

This research examines the health effects of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and the 2014 soda tax in Mexico, introduced to mitigate consumption and improve public health. It highlights the substitution between water and SSBs, driven by limited access to clean water in Mexico. Despite mixed research findings, the tax led to a 6% decrease in SSB purchases, particularly among low-income households. The study also explores the ad valorem nature of the tax, its advantages in targeting lower-priced products, and its regressive impact on low-income individuals. The research aims to contribute by examining soda and water demand in Mexico and comparing the regressiveness of the tax to wealthier countries like the UK and the US. Brief

Schooling, Internship and Human Capital

Published:

This research explores the trade-offs between internships and education in the context of the Ben-Porath human capital model. It examines how individuals allocate their time to accumulate both general and industry-specific human capital to maximize their lifetime earnings. Internships offer industry-specific experience, while education provides general knowledge. The study also highlights how different industries value these two types of human capital, and how individuals optimize their time investment based on wage rates, costs of education and internships, and the productivity of each. By understanding this balance, the research aims to shed light on the decision-making processes of individuals as they navigate schooling and internships, contributing to broader discussions on labor market outcomes and human capital accumulation. slides for Oct 18 Presentation

teaching

ECMA 31350

Graduate course, University of Chicago, Department of Economics, 2025

You may find my TA discussion notes here.