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Gene x Environment Interactions: Polygenic Scores and the Impact of an Early Childhood Intervention in Colombia

Author

Listed:
  • Attanasio, Orazio

    (Yale University)

  • Conti, Gabriella

    (University College London)

  • Jervis, Pamela

    (Universidad de Chile)

  • Meghir, Costas

    (Yale University)

  • Okbay, Aysu

    (Amsterdam University of Applied Science)

Abstract

We evaluate impacts heterogeneity of an Early Childhood Intervention in Colombia, with respect to the Educational Attainment Polygenic Score (EA4 PGS) constructed from DNA data based on GWAS weights from a European population. We find that the EA4 PGS is predictive of several measures of child development, mother’s IQ and, to some extent, educational attainment. We also show that the impacts of the intervention are significantly greater in children with low PGS, to the point that the intervention eliminates the initial genetic disadvantage. Lastly, we find that children with high PGS attract more parental stimulation; however, the latter increases more strongly in children with low PGS.

Suggested Citation

  • Attanasio, Orazio & Conti, Gabriella & Jervis, Pamela & Meghir, Costas & Okbay, Aysu, 2025. "Gene x Environment Interactions: Polygenic Scores and the Impact of an Early Childhood Intervention in Colombia," IZA Discussion Papers 17897, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17897
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    Keywords

    stimulation programs; early childhood development; GxE interactions;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
    • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality

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