A Life Course Perspective on Gender Differences in Cognitive Functioning in India

Ilke Onur and Malathi Velamuri

Journal of Human Capital, 2016, vol. 10, issue 4, 520 - 563

Abstract: We examine gender differences in four measures of cognitive functioning among older Indians. We estimate the impact of childhood circumstances, choices in adulthood, and current circumstances on cognitive functioning. Baseline estimates reveal a female disadvantage across all measures. Our most detailed specification suggests that variables over the life course account for female disadvantage in one measure; sizable gaps remain in the others. Predicted cognition gaps are driven by gender differences in characteristics as well as the asymmetric returns to these characteristics. Lower cognitive functioning and higher life expectancy imply a lower quality of life for Indian women in old age.

Date: 2016
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Working Paper: A Life-Course Perspective on Gender Differences in Cognitive Functioning in India (2014)
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