High-Ability Influencers? The Heterogeneous Effects of Gifted Classmates

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Human Resources
Year: 2023
Volume: 58
Issue: 2

Authors (3)

Simone Balestra (not in RePEc) Aurélien Sallin (not in RePEc) Stefan C. Wolter (Universität Bern)

Score contribution per author:

1.341 = (α=2.01 / 3 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We study the causal impact of intellectually gifted students on their nongifted classmates’ school achievement, enrollment in post-compulsory education, and occupational choices. Using student-level administrative and psychological data, we find a positive effect of exposure to gifted students on peers’ school achievement in both math and language. This impact is heterogeneous: larger effects are observed among male students and high-achievers, and female students benefit primarily from female gifted students. Effects are driven by gifted students not diagnosed with emotional or behavioral disorders. Exposure to gifted students increases the likelihood of choosing a selective academic track and occupations in STEM fields.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:uwp:jhriss:v:58:y:2023:i:2:p:633-665
Journal Field
Labor
Author Count
3
Added to Database
2026-01-29