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Gender-Specific Occupational Following and Gender Differences in Occupational Choice

Author

Listed:
  • Samuel M. Solomon

Abstract

This paper uses administrative data to show that occupational following—when children enter their parent’s occupation—varies significantly by the gender of the parent and the child. While children are disproportionately likely to choose an occupation if it is held by either parent, they are more likely to choose the occupation held by their same-sex parent, throughout the income distribution. Sons are more likely to enter their father’s occupation in female-dominated occupations, and daughters are more likely to enter their mother’s occupation in male-dominated occupations. Last, gender-specific occupational following is a key driver behind overall gender differences in occupational choice.

Suggested Citation

  • Samuel M. Solomon, 2026. "Gender-Specific Occupational Following and Gender Differences in Occupational Choice," AEA Papers and Proceedings, American Economic Association, vol. 116, pages 236-240, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:apandp:v:116:y:2026:p:236-240
    DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20261001
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials

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