Corruption and mental health: Evidence from Vietnam

• We examine the relationship between exposure to local corruption and mental health in rural Vietnam. Using two datasets, we find strong consistent evidence that petty is positively associated with psychological distress. Suggestive a recent anti-corruption campaign had significant positive effects on health. There may be substantial psychosocial benefits from efforts reduce improve governance. While there developing countries, costs imposed by individuals households are little understood. This study examines health, as measured depressive symptoms. use large data sets – one cross-sectional panel collected across After controlling for individual regional characteristics, day-to-day Our results robust variety of specification checks. Further, stronger women, no heterogeneous poverty status. An examination underlying mechanisms shows reductions income trust higher play role. Finally, using difference-in-difference estimation strategy, also provide suggestive high profile Overall, our findings indicate governance structures.