A five-decade UK study found that children who displayed aggressive behavior at school are likely to earn more money in middle age, contrary to the belief that bullies do not prosper. Those with emotional instability earned less. Socio-emotional skills are important for earning potential and policymakers should introduce policies to support these skills in schools.
Key Points
Aggressive behavior at school can lead to higher earnings in adulthood
Socio-emotional skills are crucial for future earning potential
Policymakers need to focus on supporting socio-emotional skills in schools
Pros
Children who displayed aggressive behavior at school are likely to earn more money in middle age
Aggressive behavior at school was linked to higher job satisfaction and more desirable jobs
Strong link between aggressive behavior at school and higher earnings in later life
Findings emphasize the importance of socio-emotional skills for earning potential
Policymakers should introduce policies to support socio-emotional skills in schools
Cons
Children with emotional instability earned less in the future