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Study shows changes in gray matter in brains of violent men
By Staff Writer
 A new study published in Archives of General Psychiatry shows that men who have histories of violence tend to have more gray matter volume in certain areas of the brain. Additionally, men who have had substance abuse issues may have less gray matter volume in other brain areas. In order to receive these results, researchers used brain scans to compare the brains of violent and nonviolent men, as well as those who are prone to substance use disorder (SUD). These participants, who were between the ages of 23 and 54, were analyzed by psychiatrists for mental disorders, aggression, psychopathy and impulsiveness before completing the study. Structural magnetic resonance imaging showed that violent men had more gray matter in the mesolimbic areas of the brain, regardless of whether or not they also had a history of SUDs. Additionally, men who have had SUDs had decreased gray matter in the brain, regardless of whether they had a history of violence. Parents who are concerned about their teens' violent behavior or substance abuse problems may want to consider enrolling them in schools for troubled youths.
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