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Positive Childhood Experiences and Adult Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Olga Cunha1, Marta Sousa1, Bárbara Pereira2
1Psychology Research Center (CIPsi), University of Minho, Braga, Portugal.
Trauma, Violence & Abuse
|November 30, 2024
Summary
Positive childhood experiences (PCEs) are linked to better mental health and well-being in adulthood. However, their interaction with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) is inconsistent, suggesting they are independent factors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Positive childhood experiences (PCEs) are understudied protective factors against childhood adversity.
- Growing interest exists in understanding the role of PCEs in adult outcomes.
- A research gap necessitates systematizing the literature on PCEs and their impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize existing research on positive childhood experiences (PCEs).
- To examine the relationship between PCEs and both positive and negative adult outcomes.
- To investigate the moderating role of PCEs in the context of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive systematic literature search was conducted across multiple databases (B-On, PsycINFO, PubMed, SCOPUS, Scielo).
- Eighty-seven studies meeting predefined inclusion criteria were identified and analyzed.
- Various study designs and diverse samples were included to assess PCEs and adult outcomes.
Main Results:
- Higher levels of PCEs consistently correlate with improved mental health (reduced depression, anxiety, suicidal behaviors) and psychosocial well-being (lower stress, higher life satisfaction).
- Conflicting findings emerged regarding behavioral outcomes, physical health, stressful life events, and family functioning.
- The interaction between PCEs and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) was inconsistent; PCEs often do not moderate ACEs' consequences.
Conclusions:
- Positive childhood experiences are robustly associated with better adult mental health and well-being.
- PCEs and ACEs appear to be independent, often co-occurring, factors influencing adult life.
- Further research with diverse populations is crucial to fully elucidate the role and impact of PCEs.
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