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Long-Term Impacts of Compensatory Preschool on Health and Behavior: Evidence from Head Start

Author

Listed:
  • Pedro Carneiro

    (University College London)

  • Rita Ginja

    (Uppsala Universitet)

Abstract

This paper provides new estimates of the medium and long-term impacts of Head Start on health and behavioral problems. We identify these impacts using discontinuities in the probability of participation induced by program eligibility rules. Our strategy allows us to identify the effect of Head Start for the set of individuals in the neighborhoods of multiple discontinuities, which vary with family size, state and year. Participation in the program reduces the incidence of behavioral problems, health problems and obesity of male children at ages 12 and 13. It lowers depression and obesity among adolescents, and reduces engagement in criminal activities and idleness for young adults.

Suggested Citation

  • Pedro Carneiro & Rita Ginja, 2014. "Long-Term Impacts of Compensatory Preschool on Health and Behavior: Evidence from Head Start," Working Papers 2014-010, Human Capital and Economic Opportunity Working Group.
  • Handle: RePEc:hka:wpaper:2014-010
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Head Start; Regression Discontinuity; poverty;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C26 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Instrumental Variables (IV) Estimation
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth

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