How families’ socioeconomic level and structure shape educational inequality in Brazil

• In Event: Sociology of Education Section Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 6. Familial Investments in Schooling

Abstract

This study investigates how family structure and socioeconomic status shape educational inequality among Brazilian youth aged 15 to 17. Drawing on social reproduction and rational action theories, the research uses cross-sectional microdata from the Brazilian Household Survey (PNAD-C) for 2016, 2019, and 2022 to analyze school enrollment and on-time progress. The methodology employs logistic regression models to calculate average predicted probabilities and average marginal effects across the observed years. The paper focuses on investigating the roles of family structure and socioeconomic level as predictors of educational success. In the same vein, it tests potential moderation effects between these two variables. Results show a general improvement in educational achievement in Brazil, even in times of crisis. Family types and socioeconomic levels not only showed different levels of variation but also demonstrated mutual moderation effects. The evidence shows the effect of a shift on Brazilian demographic patterns, suggesting that families headed by women are increasing in number, changing their socio-economic profile, and becoming a protective factor against educational underachievement.

Author

• David Pohl, Rio de Janeiro Federal University