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Childhood Adversity Hinders Brain Growth, Sparks Substance Risks

2/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A groundbreaking study from Virginia Tech uncovers that childhood adversity can hinder brain development, heightening the risk of mental health issues and substance abuse. Surprisingly, brain connectivity is a more telling indicator of future substance use than behavioral control. However, there's hope: cognitive control often strengthens in late adolescence, hinting at resilience and opportunities for intervention.

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Story summary

A groundbreaking study from Virginia Tech uncovers that childhood adversity can hinder brain development, heightening the risk of mental health issues and substance abuse. Surprisingly, brain connectivity is a more telling indicator of future substance use than behavioral control. However, there's hope: cognitive control often strengthens in late adolescence, hinting at resilience and opportunities for intervention.