Adverse Childhood Experiences, Positive Childhood Experiences, and Mental Health Outcomes: A Mixed Methods Analysis of 27 Udayan Ghar Children

Abstract

This project aims to examine the relationship between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and positive childhood experiences (PCEs) in a sample of 27 children in the ghar program of Udayan Care with existing mental health screening data. The children who enter alternative care models such as Udayan often come from backgrounds characterized by traumatic events. Adverse experiences in formative years can have profoundly negative effects on mental health, physical health, and general worldview and behaviors in both the present and future. Udayan’s model centers trauma informed care and mental health support, but more information not only on common mental health challenges and traumas, but also resilience factors and positive experiences in the ghar population is always useful in ensuring it is delivering the most impactful care possible.