Taking the Good with the Bad: Positive Childhood Experiences Might Moderate Effects of Early Adversity

Research into the effect of early life experiences on later health has focused heavily on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), yet positive childhood experiences (PCEs) are likely to play an important role in adult health outcomes.

Researchers evaluated behavioral risk factor data from a 2015 statewide survey of adults in Wisconsin. A 7-item PCE composite score was created using self-reported items related to feeling supported by and connected to family, friends, school, and the community as a child. Two adult outcomes — depression or poor mental health and reported social and emotional support — were analyzed by presence and level of PCEs. The relationships of PCEs to adult outcomes were stratified by level of ACEs. Adjustments were made f…