Inheritances, Intergenerational Transfers, and the Accumulation of Health

S-Tier
Journal: American Economic Review
Year: 2013
Volume: 103
Issue: 3
Pages: 451-55

Score contribution per author:

8.043 = (α=2.01 / 1 authors) × 4.0x S-tier

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

Abstract

This paper considers the mechanisms behind a positive correlation between inheritances and health. First, there may merely be a correlation: those from families with enough wealth to provide an inheritance tend to have better health. Second, financial resources could be used to purchase inputs to health. Third, bequests may signal a stronger interest in one's child. This reminder to the child could improve their emotional well-being. On average, the positive correlation suggests merely correlation. However, among subsets of the population, particularly men and those expecting to receive an inheritance, there is a causal relationship likely driven by the third mechanism.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:aea:aecrev:v:103:y:2013:i:3:p:451-55
Journal Field
General
Author Count
1
Added to Database
2026-01-25