How Positive Childhood Experiences Offset Adversity

Christina Bethell

Research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) has shown that childhood trauma is linked to increased health risks in adulthood, but emerging studies on Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs) suggest that supportive relationships and nurturing environments can buffer against these negative effects. New findings indicate that fostering PCEs—such as emotional support, community engagement, and stability—can significantly improve mental health outcomes, highlighting the importance of both preventing adversity and promoting resilience. Originally published at ScienceFriday.

Christina Bethell is quoted.