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Pre and post natal drivers of childhood intelligence: Evidence from Singapore

Author

Listed:
  • Gail Pacheco

    (Department of Economics, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.)

  • Mary Hedges

    (Department of Economics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.)

  • Chris Schilling

    (New Zealand Institute of Economic Research.)

  • Susan Morton

    (School of Population Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.)

Abstract

In this study, we seek to investigate what influences children’s intelligence in early childhood. The Singapore Cohort Study of the Risk Factors of Myopia (SCORM) is used in to assess determinants of childhood IQ and changes in IQ. This longitudinal data set, collected from 1999, includes a wealth of demographic, socioeconomic, and prenatal characteristics. The richness of the data allows us to employ various econometric approaches including the use of ordered and multinomial logit analysis. We find mother’s education to be a consistent and key determinant of childhood IQ. We also find that father’s education and school quality are key drivers for increasing IQ levels above the average sample movement.

Suggested Citation

  • Gail Pacheco & Mary Hedges & Chris Schilling & Susan Morton, 2011. "Pre and post natal drivers of childhood intelligence: Evidence from Singapore," Working Papers 2011-04, Auckland University of Technology, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:aut:wpaper:201104
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    3. Cesur Resul & Kelly Inas Rashad, 2010. "From Cradle to Classroom: High Birth Weight and Cognitive Outcomes," Forum for Health Economics & Policy, De Gruyter, vol. 13(2), pages 1-26, March.
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