Neurological Effects of Living in Violent Neighborhoods

Children living in violent neighborhoods show increased amygdala reactivity, indicating heightened sensitivity to threats, which can impact mental health and socioemotional functioning. Nurturing parenting can protect against these effects, reducing exposure to community violence and its impact on the brain. The study involved functional MRI scans of 708 children and teens, demonstrating that supportive parental relationships can act as a buffer against the negative influences of environmental stressors. This research underscores the crucial role of parental support in fostering resilience among youth facing neighborhood adversity.