Hysteresis and the Labor Force Participation Rate. In economics the term “hysteresis” means that the history of the economy has a lingering effect on current economic performance. During the U.S....

Hysteresis and the Labor Force Participation Rate. In economics the term “hysteresis” means that the history of the economy has a lingering effect on current economic performance. During the U.S. recession starting in 2007, the labor force participation rate continued to remain below the levels that prevailed before the recession. Could this be an example of hysteresis? Can you suggest any other explanations?