Uses of the Social Security Work History Sample in Studying Metropolitan Migration.

摘要

The Social Security Work History Sample is a data source unique for both its longitudinal depth and its sheer numerical size. Two examples illustrate how understanding of the migration process has been broadened by this data source. In the first example, the Work History File is used as a longitudinal register from which individual migration histories can be developed. In the second example, the file serves as a source of time series on gross migration flows into and out of metropolitan areas. The example demonstrates how data on short-term migration can sharpen theories about the way migration flows respond to economic differentials among metropolitan areas. Both examples highlight the need to identify the 'natural' dynamics of population movements in formulating policies on the labor force and on urban growth.