Stresses of Poverty May Impair Learning Ability in Young Children

Source: National Institutes of Health - August 28, 2012

The stresses of poverty — such as crowded conditions, financial worry, and lack of adequate child care — lead to impaired learning ability in children from impoverished backgrounds, according to a theory based on several studies by a researcher funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The studies matched stress hormone levels to behavioral and school readiness test results in young children from impoverished backgrounds. High levels of stress hormones influence the developing circuitry of children's brains, inhibiting higher cognitive functions such as planning, impulse and emotional control, and attention. Known collectively as executive functions, these mental abilities are important for academic success. See the NIH press release (August 28, 2012) for more information.  http://www.nih.gov/news/health/aug2012/nichd-28.htm