Uncovering the genetic and environmental mediators of parent-offspring transmission of educational attainment: An adoption study

Abstract

While research has consistently found a strong, parent-to-offspring transmission of educational attainment, understanding the mechanisms underlying this relationship remains tentative. Genetically informative methods using a longitudinal, adoption sample was used to better understand possible mediators for this relationship. Data was drawn the Sibling Interaction and Behavior Study (SIBS) which consists of 409 adoptive and 208 nonadoptive families consisting of two offspring followed from adolescence into young adulthood and their rearing parents. Four domains of mechanisms by which parents might foster the educational achievement of the children they rear were examined: 1) skill enhancement; 2) academic support; 3) material advantage; 4) supportive family environment. Analysis revealed evidence for genetic mediation within the skills domain and shared, environmental mediation for academic expectations and family income.