The Impact of Parental Background on the Big Five Traits and Intelligence: Evidence from a Twin Based Study

This study compares fluid intelligence and personality traits among children from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds using twin data from the first wave of TwinLife. Utilizing a Constant Elasticity of Substitution production function approach, the study examines how parental skills, investments, and socioeconomic status influence children's intelligence and personality development. Results underscore that children from higher socioeconomic status backgrounds exhibit higher levels of intelligence, openness, extraversion, and emotional stability. The findings suggest that interventions targeting parental investments and fostering desirable personality traits could significantly enhance outcomes, particularly for disadvantaged children, thereby offering a promising avenue for improving child welfare and life outcomes.