Recently, researchers from the University of Birmingham published a study that compared the amounts of gray matter throughout several parts of the brain between typically developing children and children with behavioral problems.  The study found that the children with behavioral problems showed decreased amounts of gray matter in the amygdala, insula, and prefrontal cortex.

These parts of the brain are responsible for perception response, self-awareness, reading of facial and personality expressions, decision-making, and moderating emotional and social behavior.  Children with behavioral problems have shown impaired function in each of these cognitive processes.

Learn more about these findings here or follow the link below to see the published article.

Jack C. Rogers, Stéphane A. De Brito. Cortical and Subcortical Gray Matter Volume in Youths with Conduct Problems. JAMA Psychiatry, 2015; 1
DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2015.2423