The research presented in the first part of this session all uses data from either the Interview or Diary component of the Consumer Expenditure Survey (CE). This presentation describes the structure of the data files, variables available for analysis, and other topics of interest related both to the computation of results for the research presented earlier, and for original research upon which attendees may wish to embark.
DATA/METHODS
The CE is the most detailed source of expenditures, demographics, and income collected from consumers by the Federal government. CE microdata are derived from two surveys: The Quarterly Interview Survey and the Diary Survey. The first of these is designed to collect data on the types of expenditures respondents can recall for a period of 3 months or longer, such as those for property, automobiles, and major durable goods, and those that occur on a regular basis, such as rent or utilities. The second is designed to obtain data on frequently purchased smaller items, such as food and beverages, both at home and in food establishments, housekeeping supplies, tobacco, nonprescription drugs, and personal care products and services.
RESULTS/EXPECTED RESULTS
Attendees will learn the basics of CE microdata and analysis and will be inspired to use them in their own research.