The Myth of Immigrant Women as Secondary Workers: Evidence from Canada

S-Tier
Journal: American Economic Review
Year: 2014
Volume: 104
Issue: 5
Pages: 360-64

Authors (2)

Al?cia Adser? (not in RePEc) Ana M. Ferrer (University of Waterloo)

Score contribution per author:

4.022 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 4.0x S-tier

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

Abstract

We use the confidential files of the Canadian Census 1991–2006, combined with information from O*NET on the skill requirements of jobs, to show that the labor market patterns of female immigrants do not fit the profile of secondary workers, but rather conform to the recent experience of married native women with rising participation (and wage assimilation). At best, only relatively uneducated immigrant women in unskilled occupations may fit the profile of secondary workers. Educated immigrant women experience skill assimilation over time: a reduction in physical strength and a gradual increase in analytical skills required in their jobs relative to natives.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:aea:aecrev:v:104:y:2014:i:5:p:360-64
Journal Field
General
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-24