English

A jackknife bias correction for nonlinear network data models with fixed effects

Econometrics 2025-11-18 v4

Abstract

I introduce a new method for bias correction of dyadic models with agent-specific fixed effects, including the dyadic link formation model with homophily and degree heterogeneity. The proposed approach uses a jackknife procedure to deal with the incidental parameters problem. The method can be applied to both directed and undirected networks, allows for non-binary outcome variables, and can be used to bias correct estimates of average effects and counterfactual outcomes. I also show how the jackknife can be used to bias correct fixed-effect averages over functions that depend on multiple nodes, e.g. triads or tetrads in the network. As an example, I implement specifica- tion tests for dependence across dyads, such as reciprocity or transitivity. Finally, I demonstrate the usefulness of the estimator in an application to a gravity model for import/export relationships across countries.

Keywords

Cite

@article{arxiv.2203.15603,
  title  = {A jackknife bias correction for nonlinear network data models with fixed effects},
  author = {David W. Hughes},
  journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2203.15603},
  year   = {2025}
}
R2 v1 2026-06-24T10:30:17.929Z