Bayesian Doubly Robust Causal Inference via Posterior Coupling

Abstract: In observational studies, propensity score methods are central for estimating causal effects while adjusting for confounders. Among them, the doubly robust (DR) estimator has gained considerable attention because it provides consistent estimates when either the propensity score model or the outcome model is correctly specified. Like other propensity score approaches, the DR estimator typically involves two-step estimation: first, estimating the propensity score and outcome models, and then estimating the causal effects using the estimated values. However, this sequential procedure does not naturally align with the Bayesian framework, which centers on updating prior beliefs solely through the likelihood. In this manuscript, we propose novel Bayesian DR estimation via posterior coupling, which incorporates propensity score information via moment conditions directly into the posterior distribution. This design avoids the feedback problem and enables a fully Bayesian interpretation of DR estimation without requiring two-step estimation. We detail the theoretical properties of the proposed method and demonstrate its advantages over existing Bayesian approaches through comprehensive simulation studies and real data applications.