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Family Stress and the Intergenerational Correlation in Self-Control

Author

Listed:
  • Cobb-Clark, Deborah A.

    (University of Sydney)

  • Tayeb, Haniene

    (ARC Centre of Excellence for Children and Families over the Life Course)

Abstract

We examine the correlation in self-control between parents and their young-adult children. Analyzing two decades of population-representative panel data, we exploit variation in the family environment during childhood to investigate how family stress related to: i) parenting responsibilities; ii) parents' relationship quality; iii) household finances; and iv) poor mental health shapes the transmission of self-control across generations. A finite mixture model is used to account for unobserved heterogeneity in young adults' capacity for self-control. Our results indicate that some young people may be particularly sensitive to growing up in a stressful environment, opening the door for family stress to shape the intergenerational transmission of disadvantage through the formation of self-control.

Suggested Citation

  • Cobb-Clark, Deborah A. & Tayeb, Haniene, 2024. "Family Stress and the Intergenerational Correlation in Self-Control," IZA Discussion Papers 17265, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17265
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • D10 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - General
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth

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