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Human Capital Development: New Evidence on the Production of Socio-Emotional Skills

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  • Mark Mitchell
  • Marta Favara
  • Catherine Porter
  • Alan Sánchez

Abstract

We estimate a dynamic model of socio-emotional skill development between ages eight and 22 for a Peruvian cohort born in 1994. At age eight there is no wealth gradient, in contrast to cognitive skills. However, by age 12, inequalities emerge and widen through age 19, driven by differential household investments, and cross-productivity with cognitive skills. In early adulthood, we separate socio-emotional skills into two distinct domains—social skills and task effectiveness—that evolve differently and are differently correlated with risky behaviors, such as smoking or taking drugs. Unequal initial household resources perpetuate inequality across generations through cognitive and task effectiveness skills.

Suggested Citation

  • Mark Mitchell & Marta Favara & Catherine Porter & Alan Sánchez, 2025. "Human Capital Development: New Evidence on the Production of Socio-Emotional Skills," Journal of Human Resources, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 60(4), pages 1175-1216.
    • Handle: RePEc:uwp:jhriss:v:60:y:2025:i:4:p:1175-1216
    Note: DOI: https://doi.org/10.3368/jhr.1120-11342R1
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C38 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Multiple or Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables - - - Classification Methdos; Cluster Analysis; Principal Components; Factor Analysis
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • O15 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Economic Development: Human Resources; Human Development; Income Distribution; Migration
    • O54 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economywide Country Studies - - - Latin America; Caribbean

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