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Small Children, Big Problems: Childbirth and Crime

Author

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  • Britto, Diogo
  • Hsu Rocha, Roberto
  • Pinotti, Paolo
  • Sampaio, Breno

Abstract

We investigate the effect of having a child on parents' criminal behavior using rich administrative data from Brazil. Fathers' criminal activity increases sharply by up to 10\% during the pregnancy period, and by up to 30\% two years after birth, while mothers experience only a transitory decline in criminal activity around childbirth. The effect on fathers lasts for at least six years and can explain at least 5\% of the overall male crime rate. Domestic violence within the family also increases after childbirth. The generalized increase in fathers' crime stands in sharp contrast with previous evidence from developed countries, where childbirth is associated with significant and enduring declines in criminal behavior by both parents. Our findings can be explained by the costs of parenthood and the prevalence of poverty among newly formed Brazilian families. Consistent with this explanation, we provide novel evidence that access to maternity benefits largely offsets the increase in crime by fathers after childbirth.

Suggested Citation

  • Britto, Diogo & Hsu Rocha, Roberto & Pinotti, Paolo & Sampaio, Breno, 2024. "Small Children, Big Problems: Childbirth and Crime," CEPR Discussion Papers 19649, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:19649
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    JEL classification:

    • D10 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - General
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • K42 - Law and Economics - - Legal Procedure, the Legal System, and Illegal Behavior - - - Illegal Behavior and the Enforcement of Law
    • H5 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies

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