Intergenerational transmission of non-cognitive abilities: Evidence from the Wuhan Birth Cohort Studies

Abstract

Non-cognitive abilities strongly predict individual life outcomes. Maternal personality traits play a particularly pivotal role in shaping the non-cognitive abilities of infants and toddlers. However, few studies have been conducted on this topic within the Chinese context. This study aimed to examine the intergenerational transmission effect and mechanism of non-cognitive abilities between mothers and children using the 2021–2022 Wuhan Birth Cohort Studies. The analysis revealed an overall mother-child correlation for non-cognitive abilities of 0.294, with sub-dimensions ranging from 0.03 to 0.17. Higher extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and openness scores, as well as lower neuroticism scores among mothers were associated with better social-emotional development of children. Nurturing effects were significant in the intergenerational transmission of non-cognitive abilities. These results shed light on public policies aimed at enhancing children's development.