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Intra-Household Bargaining Power and Expenditure on Children’ Education in Brazil

Author

Listed:
  • Fernando Pozzobon
  • Marcos Vinicio Wink Junior
  • Henrique da Cruz

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between women’s bargaining power, as measured by their share of family income, and spending on children’s education in Brazil. Using data from the 2017-2018 Household Budget Survey (POF) and fractional Probit models, findings reveal that increased maternal income share is associated with a higher proportion of the family budget allocated to education, with effects reaching up to 1.15 percentage points. The impact is particularly pronounced for daughters, underscoring a gender dimension in resource allocation. Regional and local variations further reveal how socio-economic and cultural factors influence these patterns, with broader effects in less developed areas and more targeted benefits for daughters in urban and economically advanced regions. These results offer insights into how maternal bargaining power shapes financial decisions, highlighting its importance for addressing gender disparities and informing equitable educational policies.

Suggested Citation

  • Fernando Pozzobon & Marcos Vinicio Wink Junior & Henrique da Cruz, 2026. "Intra-Household Bargaining Power and Expenditure on Children’ Education in Brazil," International Journal of Economics and Finance, Canadian Center of Science and Education, vol. 18(4), pages 1-49, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:ibn:ijefaa:v:18:y:2026:i:4:p:49
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    4. Cheryl Doss, 2013. "Intrahousehold Bargaining and Resource Allocation in Developing Countries-super-1," The World Bank Research Observer, World Bank, vol. 28(1), pages 52-78, February.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    JEL classification:

    • R00 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General - - - General
    • Z0 - Other Special Topics - - General

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