CHFA | Psychology Department Showcase: Completed Projects
Childhood Experiences, Resilience, and Ghanaian Adult Psychological Well-Being
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
Major
Psychology ABA Track
Minor
Human Development and Learning
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Esther Malm, Ph.D.
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Significant amounts of research exist concerning adverse childhood experiences and trauma (ACES) and its negative consequences on adult well-being. However, there is minimal research on a concept known as positive childhood experiences (PCES), which are circumstances in childhood that provide safety, security, and predictability in the home. It has been shown that PCES and ACES have co-occurred in childhood. It is apparent that PCES positively affect one's life, can counteract the negative effects of ACE exposure, and can promote resiliency. These studies have been done with samples across the Western Hemisphere. However, this study seeks to examine the effects of adverse and positive childhood experiences on psychological well-being as well as the role of resilience in explaining these relationships among a Ghanaian sample of adults. It is hypothesized that resilience would mediate the relationships between adverse childhood experiences, positive childhood experiences and adult psychological well-being. Data was collected in 2023 from Ghanaian adults (n=303; Mage=21; Age Range=18-50). Findings from this study will better inform our understanding of PCES, their co-occurrence with ACES, and their impact on adult well-being. Findings will also provide strategies for informed care in the Ghanaian population.
Spring Scholars Week 2025
Psychology: Completed Projects
Childhood Experiences, Resilience, and Ghanaian Adult Psychological Well-Being
Significant amounts of research exist concerning adverse childhood experiences and trauma (ACES) and its negative consequences on adult well-being. However, there is minimal research on a concept known as positive childhood experiences (PCES), which are circumstances in childhood that provide safety, security, and predictability in the home. It has been shown that PCES and ACES have co-occurred in childhood. It is apparent that PCES positively affect one's life, can counteract the negative effects of ACE exposure, and can promote resiliency. These studies have been done with samples across the Western Hemisphere. However, this study seeks to examine the effects of adverse and positive childhood experiences on psychological well-being as well as the role of resilience in explaining these relationships among a Ghanaian sample of adults. It is hypothesized that resilience would mediate the relationships between adverse childhood experiences, positive childhood experiences and adult psychological well-being. Data was collected in 2023 from Ghanaian adults (n=303; Mage=21; Age Range=18-50). Findings from this study will better inform our understanding of PCES, their co-occurrence with ACES, and their impact on adult well-being. Findings will also provide strategies for informed care in the Ghanaian population.