You Are an Employee of the Bureau of Labor Statistics

question 69

Essay

You are an employee of the Bureau of Labor Statistics involved in the monthly survey of households used to estimate the unemployment rate. In each of the following cases, classify the individual as frictionally, structurally, or cyclically unemployed. Explain your classification.
(a) There has been a general economic slow down. Because of weak demand, Andy Capp has lost his portering job at the docks.
(b) Phil McCafferty, a newly qualified dental school graduate, is looking for a place to set up practice.
(c) Coal miner Ned Ludd is thrown out of work by the introduction of a more mechanized production process.
(d) Latosha Hogan, a computer programmer with a large bank, quit her job two months ago in search of a better-paid programming position. She is still looking.

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Definitions:

Ecological Fallacy

The error that arises when conclusions about individual-level behavior are drawn from aggregate-level data, assuming that group data reflect the individual behaviors within the group.

Workforce Diversity

The inclusion of individuals of different races, ethnicities, genders, ages, religions, disabilities, and sexual orientations in the workplace.

Globalization

The process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments worldwide, often characterized by global economic trade and cultural exchange.

Interdependence

The reliance between two or more entities or groups, often leading to collaborative or cooperative behavior.