Parenthood Timing and Gender Inequality
◈ 장 소 : 혁신센터(16동) 338호
◈ 주 관 : 경제학부, SSK
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Abstract
I develop a new methodology that delivers the first causal estimates of the independent effects of parenthood and its timing, leveraging variation from intrauterine insemination (IUI) success. The method exploits quasi-experiments where individuals not initially assigned to treatment may undergo repeated assignments, as when IUI failure induces subsequent procedures. By leveraging entire assignment sequences, it separates treatment effects (parenthood versus childlessness) from timing effects (earlier versus later childbearing). Using Dutch administrative data, I find that motherhood persistently reduces earnings (10–28%) and work hours (10–22%), causing up to half of post-childbirth gender inequality. Delayed childbearing—even when unintended—mitigates women’s losses.