Final answer:
The hippocampus is the brain structure critical for memory formation and is particularly affected by chronic stress in poverty. Chronic stress can cause decreased hippocampal volume and impairments in memory.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hippocampus, which is critical for the formation of new memories, is particularly sensitive to the chronic stress accompanying poverty. The hippocampus is responsible for converting short-term memories into long-term memories. Chronic stress can lead to decreased hippocampal volume and impairments in memory function, including difficulties in forming new memories.
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