Non-cognitive skills, social capital, and female labor supply

Meilan Han, Ze Zhang, Weiran Zhang, Xiling Wu

Abstract

Human capital is a key determinant of individual labor supply. Within the new human capital theory framework, this study examines how non-cognitive skills influence female labor supply from a gender perspective. Using 2018 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) data, we measure non-cognitive skills across five dimensions: conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, openness, and emotional stability. A structural equation model reveals that these skills enhance social capital accumulation, significantly increasing female labor supply. They are critical factors affecting women’s labor force participation and working hours. Policy efforts should prioritize strengthening maternity security, fostering social capital networks, and developing children’s non-cognitive skills to promote higher female labor supply

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