Researchers discover students who were psychologically successful, with strong sense of self-control and persistence, had cells that were biologically older
August 30, 2021
Professors Edith Chen and Greg Miller, of the Department of Psychology, found that overcoming adversity can actually be harmful to the health of low-income adolescents of color.
The researchers discovered that students who were psychologically successful, with a strong sense of self-control and persistence, had cells that were biologically older than their actual age. Cellular aging is associated with many chronic health problems, and it can even lead to premature death.
In order to best address this issue, Chen and Miller said schools can provide health education and screenings to help identify problems before they become chronic.
“Most importantly, our work shows that we need to create more inclusive and welcoming education communities that engage and support everyone so that regardless of background, every student has the opportunity to both succeed and thrive,” said Miller.
Chen and Miller discuss their study and findings in this explainer video:
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