Role of Food Insecurity in Parental Physical Health Outcomes & Behaviors

Abstract

Parental health and health behaviors are an essential area of study as they extend beyond the parents themselves, impacting the health, habits, and life trajectories of their children. Given that socioeconomic status and food insecurity have been shown to have adverse health effects on various segments of the population, it is important to explore the extent to which this relationship exists for parents. This paper seeks to identify the relationship between food insecurity and physical health & health behaviors for mothers and fathers using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. Utilizing probit models and controlling for previous levels of output, this study finds evidence of a causal relationship between food insecurity and various adverse health outcomes & health behaviors for both mothers and fathers. The results suggest the importance of improving food access for parents.