Be part of K-State researchers’ effort to capture the full story of childhood experiences
A research team in the School of Human Sciences, led by Amber Vennum and Michelle Toews, brings together undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students to create a more comprehensive tool for measuring the full range of childhood experiences that influence developmental outcomes.
Identifying Adverse Childhood Experiences, or ACEs, has helped practitioners recognize how chronic stressors and hardships in childhood can shape adult health and relationships. Adversity alone doesn’t tell the whole story, however. Protective/Positive Childhood Experiences, or PCEs, such as consistent support, emotional safety and meaningful belonging, can buffer risk and foster resilience.
“Existing measures weren't reflecting the wide range of lived experiences that would activate the neurological and social processes leading to both positive and adverse outcomes," said the team. "We wanted to create a more comprehensive assessment that not only captures a broader spectrum of experiences but also incorporates people’s own perceptions of the impact those experiences have had on their lives."
Understanding both sides of the developmental story helps researchers and clinicians better identify risks, protective factors, and pathways toward healing and health. Last year, the team got feedback from topic experts and students in the College of Health and Human Sciences on how well the new scale captured the wide range of adverse and protective/positive life events people experience. Now, they need help testing how their new scale measures up to existing scales.
The team is seeking people ages 26 or older who currently live in the United States to participate in their research. The study has received IRB No.12190. Volunteers can complete the survey to help build better tools for clinical assessment, enable the development of more precise prevention and intervention strategies, and ultimately improve outcomes across the lifespan. Participants can choose to enter a drawing for one of 10 $20 prizes or one of two $50 prizes.
— Submitted by Amber Vennum