Labor Force Participation in Southern Rural Labor Markets

Abstract

Abstract Despite the extensive study of labor force participation rates, factors influencing the labor force status of rural workers have received relatively little attention. Employing primary data from interviews conducted in four southern rural counties, this study investigates the major determinants of labor force participation among six subgroups in the sample. Evidence from probit analysis indicates the critical role of health in the participation decision of virtually all subgroups. The expected wage is found to significantly influence the participation decision of secondary, but not primary, workers. Manpower policies involving day‐care centers, discrimination, and job training are also investigated.