The Role of Experimental Research in Producing Data for Decision-Making
The aim of this study is to produce information through experimental research to support decision-making and to strengthen the expertise in experimental research in Kela. In this project, we will carry out an experiment regarding fathers’ take-up of family leaves. The purpose of the experiment is to examine whether targeted information can influence the fathers’ decision to use parental leave. The fathers are randomised into two groups: those receiving additional information and the control group. The additional information includes general information on family leaves and examples of different family leave choices. We use Kela’s register data to analyse the impact of additional information on the use paternity leave and parental leave.
Researchers
- Signe Jauhiainen, Leading Researcher
- Miia Saarikallio-Torp
- Anneli Miettinen
- Ella Sihvonen
Project Implementation Period
1.4.2018–31.12.2024
Project Results
A trial public information campaign was conducted during the study to determine whether information targeted at fathers of small children can influence how and to what extent fathers take parental leave. Family leave allocated to fathers was selected for the trial because of its societal significance and topical relevance. Several changes were made to parental benefits earmarked for fathers during the 2000s and 2010s, but the use of leave days increased slowly.
The trial public information campaign was carried out in autumn 2018. The information provided to fathers was general information on family leave and examples of different ways in which leave could be allocated between parents. How the trial public information campaign was designed and executed has been reported in a Kela working paper. The effect of information on the use of parental leave days was analysed on the basis of register data collected by Kela.
Publications
- Informaatiokokeilun suunnittelu ja toteutus: Esimerkkinä isien perhevapaat (Kelan työpapereita 176)
