Positive neurobiopsychosocial mechanisms of artscience and kinesthetic performance: Analysis of the ABCD data

This research study examined how movement, expressive arts, and acculturation influenced neurodevelopment, as evinced by executive function and body mass index, among a group of preadolescents. The investigation was conducted based on the synthesis of findings from interdisciplinary neurobiopsychosocial research that helped establish the dual relevance of synchronized cognitive and gut well-being and functioning. Through this operative lens, a child’s lifespan trajectory can be influenced by physical and environmental factors that are protective of or destructive to overall lifespan development. Using archival data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development national study, protective factors such as kinesthetic performance- and ArtScience-related activities were found to significantly impact executive function and body mass index in a sample of approximately 4,000 9–11-year-olds identified as either Latinx or non-Latinx. No significant differences were found between ethnic groups. The results of this study expand on the idea that a child’s access to culturally responsive intervention is associated with higher executive function and healthier body mass index. Although there was a positive pattern with respect to acculturation and executive function, the results were not statistically significant. The theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.