Social inequality affects a child's brain development and psyche - study

A new study by scientists at King's College London has shown for the first time that not only individual income levels but also the distribution of wealth in society is linked to changes in children's brain structure and connections, and subsequent mental health problems.

The study, published in Nature Mental Health, is based on data from more than 10,000 children aged 9-10 across the US. Scientists analysed MRI scans of the participants' brains to assess the thickness and surface area of the cortex, as well as the connections between its different regions. Particular attention was paid to regions responsible for memory, attention, emotion and language.

The findings showed that children living in regions with higher levels of income inequality had smaller cortical surface areas and altered connections between cortical areas. These changes, according to the researchers, may be the mechanism through which inequality affects mental health.

Dr Divyangana Rakesh, study author from the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London, explains:

"It's not just about the income of an individual family, but how income is distributed in society. We've seen neurodevelopmental changes in children from both affluent and low-income families. This has a long-term impact on their well-being."

Researchers attribute this effect to increased "status stress" and social competition in the face of inequality, which can raise levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. Chronic stress affects the brain and other organs, which may explain the neurodevelopmental changes identified.

For the study, an index was used to show the evenness of income distribution in each state (from 0 - perfect equality, to 1 - maximum inequality). Among the states with high levels of inequality were New York, California, and Florida, while Minnesota, Utah, and Vermont showed narrower income gaps.

Six and 18 months after the brain scans, the researchers interviewed participants and found: children who lived in the most unequal states were more likely to report symptoms of anxiety, depression and sleep disturbances. The scientists found that it is structural and functional changes in the brain that may mediate the link between inequality and poorer mental health.

Professor Kate Pickett from the University of York emphasised:

"Reducing inequality is not just a matter of economics, but a crucial aspect of public health. We see that the social environment is literally shaping the development of young minds."

The authors believe that implementing policies that reduce social inequality can promote healthy brain development in children. They cite progressive taxation, enhanced social protection, infrastructure development and initiatives that build trust and social cohesion as possible measures.