Labor force participation amongst American men has been dropping for 70 years.
The US is grappling with a shortage in workers. Could it be caused by a decline in Americans who are seeking work?
The labor force participation rate measures how many people, 16 or older, are employed or looking for jobs. And it has been dropping, particularly amongst men.
Labor force participation amongst men peaked in 1948.
Labor Force Participation Rate - Men
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Labor Force Participation Rate
👆🏼 Men
👆🏼 Women
👆🏼 Overall
👆🏼 Men
👆🏼 Women
👆🏼 Overall
Until the year 2000, women entering the American workforce compensated for men exiting. But this is no longer the case.
Aging plays a factor here. But surprisingly, it's younger populations who are participating less, not older. The next post will explore why.