High School Dropouts and Sexually Transmitted Infections |
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Authors: | D. Mark Anderson Claus C. Pörtner |
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Affiliation: | 1. Department of Agricultural Economics and Economics, Montana State University, P.O. Box 172920, Bozeman, MT 59717-2920, USA;2. Department of Economics, Albers School of Business and Economics, Seattle University, Pigott 502 Box 222000, Seattle, WA 98122, USA, and Center for Studies of Demography and Ecology, University of Washington |
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Abstract: | People who drop out of high school fare worse in many aspects of life. We analyze the relationship between dropping out of high school and the probability of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Previous studies on the relationship between dropout status and sexual outcomes have not empirically addressed unobserved heterogeneity at the individual level. Using fixed effects estimators, we find evidence supporting a positive relationship between dropping out of high school and the risk of contracting an STI for females. Furthermore, we present evidence that illustrates differences between the romantic partners of dropouts versus enrolled students. These differences suggest that female dropouts may be more susceptible to contracting STIs because they partner with significantly different types of people than do nondropouts. Our results point to a previously undocumented benefit of encouraging those at risk of dropping out to stay in school longer. |
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Keywords: | I10 I20 J13 |
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