Single Mothers’ Time Preference, Smoking, and Enriching Childcare: Evidence from Time Diaries

Abstract:     
Previous research has shown that time preference affects individuals’ market time allocation and own human capital investments. This paper uses data from the CPS Tobacco Use Supplements, the American Time Use Survey, and the PSID-Child Development Supplement to examine how time preference, as measured by smoking behavior, affects mothers’ time investments in their children under age 13 and children’s future test scores. Results indicate that single mothers who smoke spend significantly less time with their children in educational activities, such as reading and homework, and sharing meals with their children than non-smokers. Their children also have lower reading test scores.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 48

Keywords: Time allocation, time preference, childcare, smoking

JEL Classification: J13, J22

Accepted Paper Series