Economic Development, Structural Change and Women's Labor Force Participation: A Reexamination of the Feminization U Hypothesis

摘要: A sizable literature claims that female labor force participation (FLFP) follows a U-shaped trend as countries develop due to structural change, education, and fertility dynamics. We show empirical support for this secular is feeble depends on the data sources used, especially GDP estimates. The U also vanishes under dynamic panel estimations. Moreover, cross-country differences in levels of FLFP related historical contingencies are more important than muted patterns found some specifications. Given large error margins international estimates sensitivity relationship, we propose direct approach explore effect change using sector-specific growth rates. results suggest affects consistent with pattern, but effects small. conclude feminization hypothesis an overarching driving development process has little support.