In this second scenario, a range of estimates begs for a “preferred estimate” produced
by weighing the strengths and limitations of each approach. If the preferred model
estimate is “no effect,” this would indicate an underlying selection mechanism (i.e.,
socioeconomic disadvantage) is the root cause of both teen childbearing and diminished
educational attainment. A second possibility is a salient effect that is diminished in
magnitude relative to non-experimentalmethods (i.e., OLS). This would lend support to
both causation and selection arguments: an underlying selection mechanism contributing
to both factors is present, but an important part of the relationship remains that can be
attributed to a causal effect of teen childbearing. In a third scenario, a salient but inflated
effect (relative to OLS) would emerge, potentially suggesting some version of favorable
self-selection. That is, young women may purposefully choose to have a teen birth but
also benefit from high levels of social or structural support that allow her to achieve her
desired level of education. We discuss this later.