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Peer Effects in Breastfeeding: Evidence from the IFPS II Study

Author

Listed:
  • Iryna Topolyan

    (Department of Economics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221, U.S.A.)

  • Qian Wang

    (School of Business Administration, Georgia Southwestern State University, Americus, GA 31709, U.S.A.)

  • Xu Xu

    (Department of Finance and Economics, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, U.S.A.)

Abstract

We study breastfeeding in the context of social interactions, distinguishing between peer influences and intergenerational transfer of breastfeeding behavior. Using data from Infant Feeding Practices Study II, we estimate peer effects in breastfeeding decisions. There is strong evidence of peer effects, which may suggest the presence of the social multiplier in breastfeeding that could lead to an amplified social response to policy interventions. However, the prevalence of breastfeeding in a peer group needs to achieve some critical level in order for the peer effects to become significant. Knowing more than five peers who breastfed has a highly significant positive effect on the likelihood of breastfeeding at months three and six postpartum, and the duration of partial and exclusive breastfeeding. Our results suggest the presence of a positive externality in breastfeeding, which may result in an under-provision of the good (breastfeeding). Therefore, a Pigovian subsidy may be needed to promote breastfeeding and correct for the externality We also find evidence of inter-generational transmission of breastfeeding behavior, which may help explain why, despite active public health campaigns aimed at promoting breastfeeding, the prevalence of breastfeeding in the U.S. remains modest.

Suggested Citation

  • Iryna Topolyan & Qian Wang & Xu Xu, 2015. "Peer Effects in Breastfeeding: Evidence from the IFPS II Study," Review of Economics & Finance, Better Advances Press, Canada, vol. 5, pages 33-44, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:bap:journl:150303
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Breastfeeding; Infant; Peer effects; Peer group; Social multiplier;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • D10 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - General
    • D71 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Social Choice; Clubs; Committees; Associations
    • I19 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Other
    • J13 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Fertility; Family Planning; Child Care; Children; Youth

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