Dynamics and Marginalization in Childhood and Youth Development

The project aims to increase knowledge about the development of cognitive and non-cognitive abilities during childhood and adolescence, and how this differs among children and young people with different backgrounds and circumstances. The planned studies include mapping the development of skills before and after school entry for various demographic and socioeconomic groups, an in-depth analysis of the early years of life, and causal analyses of factors influencing inequality during childhood.

We use extensive existing data collections together with new data on early childhood to study patterns and factors related to the development of human capital among children and young people. The project applies quantitative social science methods with a focus on dynamic learning to examine development from birth to adulthood. A particular advantage is access to detailed information from child health centers and preschools, enabling in-depth analyses of inequalities and the significance of pre-school development compared to previous literature.

The development of skills and abilities during childhood affects both individual opportunities and society at large. The project addresses some of the most pressing and current societal issues: increasing disparities in school performance based on foreign background, socioeconomic status, geography, and gender, and the significant societal challenges these entail. These issues are not only relevant for individual welfare and opportunities but also influence local and national conditions.

Understanding how different factors affect development among children and young people is crucial for developing policy and allocating resources across various areas. Knowledge from the project will contribute to designing interventions that strengthen individual opportunities in the short and long term and promote equity in the education system and society as a whole.

Researchers

Per-Anders Edin

Gustaf Gredebäck

Raoul van Maarseveen

Olof Åslund