Large numbers of US men are no longer working

 

The decline in the share of prime working-age US men with a job is a complex issue with various contributing factors. Here's a more detailed breakdown of the points mentioned earlier:

1. Recessions:
• The US economy has experienced several recessions since the 1950s, and each recession has had a lasting impact on the employment rate of prime-age men.
• Even when the economy recovers, some occupations don't reach prior employment levels or pay as well as they used to.
• Men have historically dominated the workforce, so they've borne the brunt of these impacts.
2. Disability:
• The number of workers collecting Social Security disability benefits has risen significantly since 1960.
• While some of this rise can be attributed to a growing and aging population, economic challenges have also played a role.
• Many people applying for disability benefits report being unable to find employment despite their efforts.
3. Education:
• Changing job demands have led to a greater need for higher education, making it difficult for men without degrees to find employment.
• The unemployment rate for people with only a high school diploma is higher than for those with a bachelor's degree.
• While some companies are becoming more open to hiring candidates without degrees, finding a well-paying job without a degree can still be a challenge.
4. Incarceration:
• Rising incarceration rates have made it difficult for some men to find work after release.
• Incarcerated men aren't counted in government labor force statistics, but their struggles to find work weigh on the male employment rate.
5. Stagnant wages and falling unionization rates:
• A stagnant minimum wage and falling unionization rates have contributed to lower pay for some workers.
• Lower pay can demotivate people from working, especially if they feel they're not earning a living wage.
6. Decline in military careers:
• The number of federal government military employees has declined significantly since the 1970s.
• While the military is actively seeking recruits, it appears to be a less attractive path nowadays for many men.
7. Temporary labor force exits:
• Research has found a rise in "in-and-outs" – men who temporarily leave the labor force but ultimately return.
• This phenomenon is responsible for a large chunk of men's declining working rates.

To address the issue of declining working men, it's essential to understand these factors and develop policies that tackle them. Some potential solutions include:

1. Investing in education and training programs to help men acquire new skills and adapt to changing job demands.
2. Implementing policies to support people with disabilities and help them find employment.
3. Addressing the root causes of incarceration and providing support for ex-offenders to find work.
4. Promoting fair wages and unionization to ensure workers are earning a living wage.
5. Encouraging companies to hire candidates without degrees and providing training and development opportunities.
6. Revitalizing the military as a career option for men.
7. Providing support for men who temporarily leave the labor force to help them quickly return to work.

By addressing these factors and implementing effective policies, we can work towards increasing the share of prime working-age men with a job and promoting a healthier economy.