Determinants of Health in Childhood
This article reviews the empirical studies to examine the validity of the notion that health in childhood has both short-term and longer-term economic consequences, and that childhood health is itself a function of a broader set of policies, investment decisions and parental choices, and a function of parental health stock and economic background. Economic research on the relationship between child mental health and economic outcomes is discussed in three categories. The article also includes the role that maternal behavior plays in the development of child health and behavior. It further examines the relationship between maternal substance abuse and child mental health as measured by a behavioral problems index. This article describes the determinants and role of investments in child health on later outcomes. It also identifies some priorities for future research.