Early Life Nutrition and Neuropsychological Functioning

• In Event: Violence Exposure and other Environmental Influences on Mental Health and Neurological Functioning among Correctional Officers

Abstract

Childhood is a critical time period for human development where environmental exposures may result in lasting impacts. Findings from diverse fields of study have revealed that nutrition is instrumental for healthy human development. To date, criminology has not yet fully explored the various ways in which proper nutrition may relate to different criminogenic factors at unique phases of the life course. We partially address this gap in the literature by examining whether unhealthy eating habits in childhood contribute to differential neuropsychological functioning in a high-risk sample. The results of our analyses reveal that variation in unhealthy eating habits is associated with differences in neuropsychological functioning. We discuss what these results mean for criminological theory and policy.

Authors

• William Gibbs, Florida State University

• Kevin M. Beaver, Florida State University