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Evidence of the detrimental effects of pollution has long been building, and this large study shows strong link between pollution and behavioral traits that may be caused by underlying changes to the brain.
Tiny, toxic particles are damaging to the neurons responsible for emotions and decision-making, and nearly 75 percent of Los Angeles teens in the study were exposed to unhealthy levels of them.
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Scientists from the University of Southern California say this is because they creep into developing brains, causing inflammation and ultimately leading to anti-social behavior.
The study was published in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology.
A study of almost 700 people under 19 found those most exposed to traffic fumes were more likely to indulge in anti-social behavior while growing up.
These behaviors included lying and cheating, truancy, stealing, vandalism, arson or substance abuse.
Lead author, Dr. Diana Younan, of the University of Southern California said it could be having the same effect on young people as exposure to lead, which has also been linked to juvenile delinquency.
The discovery adds to growing evidence of the grave harm pollution can do to the brain – especially when it is still developing.
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