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Maternal Influence on Birth Outcomes and Intergenerational Advantage

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  • Sadegh Eshaghnia
  • James Heckman

Abstract

We analyze the role of maternal endowments and investments in delivering small for gestational age babies. We estimate the effect of maternal endowments on birth outcomes and decompose it into a direct, “biological” effect and a “choice” effect mediated by maternal behaviors. We estimate the causal effects of maternal education and prenatal smoking and whether women with different traits have different returns. The findings highlight the importance of maternal cognition, personality traits, and physical fitness in influencing birth outcomes, with significant heterogeneity in the effects of education and smoking across different maternal physical traits, suggesting targeted prenatal interventions for less healthy women.

Suggested Citation

  • Sadegh Eshaghnia & James Heckman, 2024. "Maternal Influence on Birth Outcomes and Intergenerational Advantage," Journal of Human Capital, University of Chicago Press, vol. 18(1), pages 1-43.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucp:jhucap:doi:10.1086/728854
    DOI: 10.1086/728854
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