A new scientific study has revealed that poverty and socioeconomic conditions affect children’s brain development more than parenting style or intelligence quotient (IQ).

Researchers analyzed brain scans of nearly 12,000 9- and 10-year-old children and concluded that family socioeconomic status is the most important environmental factor that affects brain structure and functioning.

According to the study, family income, community poverty level and other economic factors explain about 16% of the variation in children’s brain functioning. Experts point out that these effects are mainly related to chronic stress, lack of sleep and more difficult living conditions.

When researchers took into account economic differences between families, the link between IQ and many brain characteristics weakened significantly.

However, the study authors point out that poverty does not necessarily determine a child’s future. According to them, investments in social welfare, reducing stress and improving living conditions can help mitigate these effects. Quality sleep, emotional support and a stable family environment are considered important protective factors.

The study, published in the scientific journal Science, is considered one of the largest analyzes conducted to date on the relationship between economic conditions and brain development in children.

Source: prizrenpost