| Abstract: |
Overeducation is an often overlooked facet of untapped human resources. But
who is overeducated and why? Relying on SOEP data 1984-2011, we use probit
models for estimating the likelihood of entering overeducation and dynamic
mixed multinomial logit models with random effects addressing state dependence
and unobserved heterogeneity. As further robustness checks we use three
specifications of the target variable, i.e. realized matches, self-assessment
and twofold overeducation. We run separate analyses for men and women, East
and West Germans and medium and highly educated persons. We find that
overeducation is mainly state dependent. Nonetheless, even in the dynamic
context staying employed proves to be risk-decreasing. By contrast, scars of
past unemployment show up in a higher mismatch risk. Moreover, an employer
change does not serve as a suitable exit strategy, and a dual qualification
does not show up as a valid insurance against graduates' job mismatch.
Overall, effects largely depend on the operationalization of overeducation. We
conclude that to combat overeducation, focusing on continuous employment
careers and circumventing unintentional withdrawals from the current job is
crucial. Moreover, institutional impediments that restrain job match quality
for certain groups (migrants, mothers) have to be tackled. |