Scientists say a 45-minute 'brain health' test on three-year-olds can identify if they are likely to grow up as criminals, obsese or get benefits.
The discovery was made in a 35-year research of nearly 1,000 people born in Dunedin (New Zealand).
They found a fifth of the population is responsible for four fifths of crime, two fifths of obesity, three quarters of fatherless families and for claiming two thirds of benefits.
According to the study, published in journal Nature Human Behaviour, the 'brain test' rating children on IQ and self-control, combined with information about deprivation and maltreatment, allowed scientists to predict “with considerable accuracy” which would go on to be the greatest burden on the state.
The study's director Richard Poulton said the findings shouldn't be used to stigmatise or stereotype but instead tackle childhood disadvantage.
