DADI.org

Kids are genetically wired to thrive under loving authority. That's the conclusion from the Commission on Children at Risk. The research means strong families and religious communities are especially helpful in keeping kids from destructive behavior.

The study found that kids do best when their boundaries are scripted by caring "authoritative communities" like family and faith. The study's lead investigator, Kathleen Kovner Kline, said the need for authority starts from the moment the child is born.

"The basic structure of the infant's brain and emotional system is set up to develop together with another person," Kline said.

The researchers also found that faith communities are especially well-suited to keeping children from delinquent behavior.

"They're multigenerational, they have children and parents and other adults and elders that share a common vision and value, that treat children as ends in and of themselves," Kline said.

Youth for Christ President Roger Cross said he has observed the benefit of homes of faith and authority in thousands of kids around the world.

"We've seen the change that happens in their behavior and their life and also the purpose that comes when they begin to live their life on a value system based on God's principles," Cross said.

The study also found that the influence of religion on young people is "grossly understudied."