Gender differences in early childhood development in rural China: a sibling structure perspective.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This study examines gender differences in early childhood cognitive development in rural China, focusing on the role of sibling structure. While gender disparities have narrowed in recent decades, concerns remain regarding unequal household resource allocation in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in contexts shaped by traditional son preference.

Methods

Data from 1,320 children aged 3 to 7 years across 11 nationally designated poverty counties in the Qinling Mountain region of western China were analyzed. Cognitive ability was assessed using the Chinese version of the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence-Fourth Edition (WPPSI-IV). Descriptive statistics and multivariate regression models were employed to investigate the associations be

SUBMITTER: Guan H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12326821 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature