After analyzing their brains through MRI scans, the research team concluded those having suffered from child abuse had a smaller orbitofrontal cortex, the part of the brain that controls emotions and impulse. (Image: Kobiz Media)
SEOUL, June 1 (Korea Bizwire) – Individuals who have suffered from child abuse are more likely to experience cerebral shrinkage, according to a recent study.
A South Korean research team led by professors of neuropsychiatry and radiology Seok Jung-ho and Ahn Sung-jun at Gangnam Severance Hospital conducted a research experiment with a sample of 23 patients who had been abused as children, and 11 who weren’t subject to abuse.
After analyzing their brains through MRI scans, the research team concluded those having suffered from child abuse had a smaller orbitofrontal cortex, the part of the brain that controls emotions and impulse.
However, the medical team wasn’t able to give numerical figures with regard to the scale of cerebral shrinkage, as the size of that particular part of the brain varies depending on each individual.
In addition, common mental illnesses such as major depressive disorders that could also result from cerebral shrinkage are suffered by nearly one in ten people in South Korea.
“There is a link between cerebral shrinkage and the lack of control over emotions among patients of major depressive disorders. As child abuse can lead to mental disorders at a later stage in life, it is important that we focus on preventing child abuse in society,” Professor Seok Jung-ho said.
The research findings were published in the latest edition of BMC Psychiatry.
Ashley Song (ahsley@koreabizwire.com)
