Children from rich families have access to more sources of information, but that's not all.
A new study shows that the connection between proper brain development and poverty is even stronger than we used to think.
Let's find out more.
It affects kids more than you think
Growing up in poverty can affect a child's brain, according to a recent study by Washington University School of Medicine.
The research, part of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study, suggests that poverty at the neighborhood and household levels can impact the brain's white matter tracts, crucial for information processing.
The study, involving nearly 12,000 children, found links between poverty, childhood obesity, lower cognitive function, and changes in white matter.
It's actually easier for rich kids
Access to enriching experiences is limited in impoverished environments.
Managing weight and encouraging cognitive stimulation may help support brain health in disadvantaged children.
The study highlights the complexity of a child's environment, involving both neighborhood and family influences.
However, further long-term research is needed to understand the direct impact of poverty on brain development.
