There is exciting research coming out that is looking at positive or protective childhood experiences (read the full article here). It’s fascinating research because it is showing factors that impact resiliency to ongoing stress or traumatic events for children and youth. It is also important to note that this area is requiring more research, but provides a nice antidote to adverse childhood experiences (ACE’s).
Seven Protective Childhood Experiences:
1. Able to talk to family about feelings
2. Felt that family stood by in difficult times
3. Enjoy participating in community traditions
4. Felt belonging in high school
5. Felt supported by friends
6. Having atleast two nonparent adults who show genuine care
7. Felt safe and protected by an adult at home
What’s Next?
Going forward, looking at protective and positive childhood experiences of our favourite heroes and villains will be included. Especially since these factors can easily be identified as possible interventions. It will also be interesting to see how often our favourite characters experienced, or did not experience PCE’s and how that get’s portrayed.
Leave a Reply