Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/295766 
Year of Publication: 
2024
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Discussion Papers No. 16743
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
This paper explores whether and why a maternal "child penalty" to earnings would emerge even without changes in employment and hours worked. Using a matched event study design, we trace monthly changes in determinants of wages (job performance, human capital accumulation, and promotions). Data come from a usefully unusual setting with required multiyear employment and detailed personnel data: the United States Marine Corps. Mothers' job performance initially declines, and gaps in promotion grow through 24 months postbirth. Fathers' physical fitness performance drops somewhat but recovers. These patterns lead mothers to earn relatively lower wages, even absent changes in employment postbirth.
Subjects: 
parenthood
child penalty
gender wage gap
promotion
JEL: 
J24
J16
J18
J45
Document Type: 
Working Paper

Files in This Item:
File
Size





Items in EconStor are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.