New Study: Children In Low-Income Homes Have Distinctly Different Brain Scans

Children growing up in low-income homes often develop at a slower rate, according to a new study. Psychology Professor Seth Pollak of the University of Wisconsin says the research shows interaction between children and adults is critical for the child, but is often absent in low-income homes.

"A child feeling protected, a child feeling secure, a child being supported; a child being spoken to and interacted with in a way that provides the child more information and practice in communication and making sense," Pollack said.

He believes people and governments have an obligation to do what they can to help the 16 million U.S. children living below the poverty line. Researchers studied 400 children from birth to age four and say there is a distinct difference in the brain scans of those living in poverty.