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Exploring the role of fathers in non-cognitive skill development over the lifecourse

Author

Listed:
  • Rosemary Elkins

    (The University of Sydney)

  • Stefanie Schurer

    (The University of Sydney)

Abstract

Internal locus of control (LOC) is a highly beneficial non-cognitive skill, yet its long-term formation process remains poorly understood. Using British cohort data, we examine the role that fathers play in LOC maturation from childhood into middle age; a machine-learning algorithm is used to identify the most common LOC maturation types. Estimating a standard skill production function, we find that father's, but not mother's, interest in their child's education at age 10, as assessed by the child's teacher, predicts internality in middle age for female and socioeconomically disadvantaged children. Father's interest increases the probability of lifelong internality by 20%, and protects against lifelong externality. Parental engagement in children's education is a malleable factor, and thus is a promising target for public policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Rosemary Elkins & Stefanie Schurer, 2018. "Exploring the role of fathers in non-cognitive skill development over the lifecourse," Working Papers 2018-034, Human Capital and Economic Opportunity Working Group.
    • Handle: RePEc:hka:wpaper:2018-034
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    non-cognitive skills; locus of control; father school involvement; lifecourse dynamics; British Cohort Study;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity

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