Socioeconomic position and cognitive function in the Seychelles: a life course analysis

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Early-life socioeconomic conditions are associated with adult cognitive deficits.
• The mediating role of current socioeconomic factors in this relationship is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To confirm the association between early-life socioeconomic position (SEP) and adult cognitive function.
• To investigate whether contemporaneous SEP mediates this relationship.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from 463 young adults in the Seychelles Child Development Study.
• Cognitive function assessed using the Cambridge Neurological Test Automated Battery and Woodcock Johnson Test of Scholastic Achievement.
• Socioeconomic position (SEP) measured using the maternal Hollingshead Social Status Index at infancy, 107 months, and 17 years.

Main Results:

• Infant-period SEP was linked to 17-year memory, independent of later SEP.
• Verbal and mathematical achievement at 17 years correlated with SEP across all life stages.
• No mediation by childhood or 17-year SEP was found for the infant SEP-memory link.

Conclusions:

• Socioeconomic position (SEP) at different life stages may influence distinct cognitive domains.
• Findings suggest targeted societal investments in family resources throughout childhood and adolescence.
• Early and sustained socioeconomic support may be crucial for optimal cognitive development.