Beauty and Adolescent Risky Behaviours

摘要: A growing body of research demonstrates marked labour market benefits from physical attractiveness. Yet, how attractiveness influences earlier consequential decisions is not well understood. This paper estimates the effect in adolescence on one set outcomes, engagement risky behaviours. We find robust evidence effects teenage across a range behaviours, including underage drinking, smoking, substance abuse and sexual activity. More attractive individuals are more likely to engage but markedly less smoke or be sexually active. Mediation analysis reveals that popularity, self-esteem, personality have roles as underlying mechanisms, yet substantial direct remain. Our findings suggest carries long-lasting consequences over life course.