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The Effect of Compulsory Education on Non-Cognitive Skills: Evidence from Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Author

Listed:
  • Antonia K. Entorf

    (University of Bonn)

  • Thomas J. Dohmen

    (University of Bonn, Maastricht University & IZA)

Abstract

Personality traits, preferences, and attitudes significantly influence labor market outcomes, and these non-cognitive skills are shaped by the social environment. While curriculum interventions can impact these skills, the effect of compulsory education on noncognitive skills is less well understood. This study investigates the impact of extending compulsory education by examining educational reforms in four low- and middle-income countries. Utilizing cross-sectional data from the World Bank’s 2012/2013 initiative, we analyze the within-country variation in compulsory education years. Our findings indicate that increased compulsory education decreases emotional stability, grit, hostile attribution bias, patience, and willingness to take risks, while enhancing openness to experience and alternative solution or consequential thinking.

Suggested Citation

  • Antonia K. Entorf & Thomas J. Dohmen, 2025. "The Effect of Compulsory Education on Non-Cognitive Skills: Evidence from Low- and Middle-Income Countries," ECONtribute Discussion Papers Series 357, University of Bonn and University of Cologne, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:ajk:ajkdps:357
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    File URL: https://www.econtribute.de/RePEc/ajk/ajkdps/ECONtribute_357_2025.pdf
    File Function: First version, 2025
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Non-cognitive skills; Education; Wage returns; Personality; Economic preferences;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • I20 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - General
    • I26 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Returns to Education
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making

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