This study investigated how state-level macroeconomic factors moderate the association between low income, brain structure, and mental health in 9–11-year-old children. Using data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study, researchers found that lower income correlated with smaller hippocampal volume and higher internalizing psychopathology. These associations were stronger in states with higher costs of living, but this effect was significantly reduced in high-cost-of-living states with more generous cash benefits for low-income families. These findings highlight the importance of considering macroeconomic factors when studying socioeconomic disparities in child development.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
May 02, 2023
Authors
David G. Weissman, Mark L. Hatzenbuehler, Mina Cikara, Deanna M. Barch, Katie A. McLaughlin
Tags
macroeconomic factors
low income
brain structure
mental health
child development
hippocampal volume
psychopathology
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