An Econometric Analysis of Maternal Parenting Behaviors on Child Health Outcomes in Fragile Families

Abstract

In the age of deteriorating health for children in fragile families, the economic burden of children facing poor welfare is increasing. Therefore, any potential insight into how child health can be improved is warranted. This study uses the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing (FFCWS) dataset to implement single-equation probit models and fixed effects models in order to determine the association between maternal parenting behaviors and child health outcomes. The results of this study indicate that there is no conclusive evidence that maternal parenting behaviors and the observed health outcomes have a significant relationship. However, there are many possibilities for extending this research in order to find more promising results in improving child health outcomes.