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The value of early physical maturity to young adult labor market outcomes

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  • Holmes, Chanita C.
  • Tracey, Marlon R.
  • Belasen, Ariel R.

Abstract

Puberty is the most important developmental milestone closely preceding a young adult’s labor market decisions. Thus, we examine the variation in the timing of physical maturity during adolescence to isolate its association with employment and hourly wages for US young adults. Using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health data, we find an early maturity premium of about 6% for females and 8% for males, but no employment advantage, in excess of gains from height and physical attractiveness. Cognitive and personality factors significantly explain this premium for both genders, but job attributes are also important for males.

Suggested Citation

  • Holmes, Chanita C. & Tracey, Marlon R. & Belasen, Ariel R., 2020. "The value of early physical maturity to young adult labor market outcomes," Economics & Human Biology, Elsevier, vol. 37(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ehbiol:v:37:y:2020:i:c:s1570677x19302473
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2020.100852
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Physical maturity timing; Wages; Employment;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J21 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Labor Force and Employment, Size, and Structure
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • J70 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - General

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