Semiannual Publication
Abstract
Aggression, a multifaceted behavior influenced by neural, environmental, and psychological factors, is associated with distinct patterns of brain functional connectivity. This study examines the neural correlates of aggression in adolescents with Conduct Disorder (CD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) from underprivileged areas of Tehran. Using resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and fMRI analysis, we compared 14 adolescents with aggression to 13 healthy controls. Behavioral assessments included the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ), while fMRI data were processed using standard pipelines. Results revealed hyperconnectivity in the default mode and fronto-parietal networks among aggressive individuals, reflecting overactive self-referential processing and impaired cognitive flexibility. Increased connectivity between fronto-parietal and salience networks pointed to emotional regulation deficits, while disruptions between language and salience networks indicated challenges in interpreting emotional speech. Hypoconnectivity in executive, attention, and emotional regulation networks suggested impaired integration of goal-directed behavior and perceptual control. These findings highlight the role of large-scale functional networks in aggression, providing insights into potential neural biomarkers and therapeutic targets. By exploring the socio-cultural and economic influences specific to Tehran, this study underscores the importance of localized approaches for understanding and managing aggression in at-risk youth.
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