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The Importance of Socio-Emotional Skills for Multiple Life Outcomes and the Role of Education

Author

Listed:
  • Belfi, Barbara

    (Maastricht University)

  • Borghans, Lex

    (Maastricht University)

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the interplay between personality traits, socio-emotional skills, and key life outcomes across education, employment, social connectedness, health, and civic participation. Drawing on a rich body of research, we highlight the significant impact of socio-emotional skills, as defined by the Study on Social and Emotional Skills (SSES) framework developed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), on various aspects of life. From academic achievement to job performance, social relationships, health indicators, and civic engagement, socio-emotional skills emerge as crucial predictors of success and well-being. Moreover, we examine the effectiveness of educational interventions in fostering socio-emotional skills, considering optimal timing and intervention strategies. Through meta-analyses and empirical studies, we uncover insights into the developmental trajectory of these skills and their malleability over time. These findings have profound implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, emphasizing the importance of integrating socio-emotional skill development into educational curricula and broader societal initiatives. By aligning interventions with the OECD framework and adopting evidence-based practices, stakeholders can empower individuals to navigate life's challenges with resilience and thrive in an increasingly complex world.

Suggested Citation

  • Belfi, Barbara & Borghans, Lex, 2025. "The Importance of Socio-Emotional Skills for Multiple Life Outcomes and the Role of Education," IZA Discussion Papers 17595, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
  • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17595
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. James Heckman & Flavio Cunha, 2007. "The Technology of Skill Formation," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 97(2), pages 31-47, May.
    2. Lex Borghans & Angela Lee Duckworth & James J. Heckman & Bas ter Weel, 2008. "The Economics and Psychology of Personality Traits," Journal of Human Resources, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 43(4).
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    4. Flavio Cunha & James J. Heckman & Susanne M. Schennach, 2010. "Estimating the Technology of Cognitive and Noncognitive Skill Formation," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 78(3), pages 883-931, May.
    5. David H. Autor & Frank Levy & Richard J. Murnane, 2003. "The skill content of recent technological change: an empirical exploration," Proceedings, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, issue Nov.
    6. Lex Borghans & Bas ter Weel & Bruce A. Weinberg, 2008. "Interpersonal Styles and Labor Market Outcomes," Journal of Human Resources, University of Wisconsin Press, vol. 43(4).
    7. David J. Deming, 2017. "The Growing Importance of Social Skills in the Labor Market," The Quarterly Journal of Economics, President and Fellows of Harvard College, vol. 132(4), pages 1593-1640.
    8. Heckman, James J. & Moon, Seong Hyeok & Pinto, Rodrigo & Savelyev, Peter A. & Yavitz, Adam, 2010. "The rate of return to the HighScope Perry Preschool Program," Journal of Public Economics, Elsevier, vol. 94(1-2), pages 114-128, February.
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    socio-emotional skills; personality traits; education; interventions; life outcomes;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I20 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - General
    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being

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