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Gender Differences in Children’s Extracurricular Activities: Japanese Parental Preference for STEM Activities for Sons

Author

Listed:
  • Matsukura, Rikiya

    (Nihon University)

  • Oshio, Takashi

    (Hitotsubashi University)

  • Ueno, Yuko

    (Hitotsubashi University)

  • Usui, Emiko

    (Hitotsubashi University)

Abstract

Using original survey data from parents of children in kindergarten through junior high school in Tokyo, Japan, we find that parents exhibit stronger preferences for sons over daughters to participate in extracurricular STEM activities, with the gender gap widening as children age. Parents aspiring for their children to pursue STEM degrees prioritize science classes more, a preference more often directed toward boys. These gendered differences affect children’s early exposure to science. Since Japanese students choose between science and humanities tracks by eleventh grade, early disparities may limit girls’ opportunities. Promoting equal STEM access is crucial to reducing these gender gaps.

Suggested Citation

  • Matsukura, Rikiya & Oshio, Takashi & Ueno, Yuko & Usui, Emiko, 2025. "Gender Differences in Children’s Extracurricular Activities: Japanese Parental Preference for STEM Activities for Sons," IZA Discussion Papers 17982, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17982
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Wolter, Stefan C. & Zöllner, Thea, 2024. "Are Parents an Obstacle to Gender-Atypical Occupational Choices?," IZA Discussion Papers 16955, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
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      JEL classification:

      • A21 - General Economics and Teaching - - Economic Education and Teaching of Economics - - - Pre-college
      • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality
      • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth
      • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination

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