Health Associations of Positive Childhood Experiences: A Scoping Review of the Literature

• 2025

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• Joachim Hero; Laura Gallant; Dina Burstein; Sydne Newberry; Nabeel Qureshi; Katie Feistel
PMID: 39857512DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22010059

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The article describes a review of research on positive childhood experiences (PCEs) and their links to health. It finds that PCEs, like strong relationships with caregivers, safe environments, and social engagement, are connected to better mental health and less substance misuse or suicidal behavior. Most studies focus on mental health; fewer look at physical health or violence. The review shows there is good evidence for the benefits of PCEs but also points out gaps where more research is needed, especially about physical health outcomes and different types of positive experiences.

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Tags

Focus Area: Mental Health

Audience: Public Health Professionals

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Child Development; Child Welfare; Mental Health; Risk Factors; Social Support; United States; Protective Factors; Resilience, Psychological; Review Literature as Topic

Institutions: RAND Corporation; Tufts Medical Center; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

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